One of the most iconic and popular Aspromonte products is the Nduja. Nduja is a spicy, spreadable pork sausage that is made using pork parts such as back fat, shoulder and belly. The meat is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and spicy red pepper flakes and then slowly smoked. After this, it is minced and mixed with even more hot peppers and stored in jars or tubes. Nduja can be added to pasta sauces, pizzas or spread onto a crusty bread. It is a versatile and tasty product that is enjoyed all across Italy and outside its borders.
Another typical Aspromonte product is the Caciocavallo Silano cheese. It is a DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) cheese that has been produced in the region for centuries. It is made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 4 months. The cheese has a nutty flavour and a slightly elastic texture. It is commonly eaten as an antipasto, to make toasted sandwiches or melted on a pizza. It is an important product of the region giving a unique taste to local cuisine.
One more product that stands out from the Aspromonte region is the Sardella fish paste. Sardella is a traditional fish sauce that is made using anchovies, hot peppers, garlic and olive oil. The sauce has a thick paste-like texture and is typically served with bread, crackers and other snacks. The intense fishy taste may not be for everyone but its local significance is unmatched.
In the Aspromonte region, the olive groves have been cultivated for generations, leading to the production of high-quality olive oil. The olive trees of Aspromonte are grown on the hillsides and thus are exposed to differing light conditions, affecting the flavour profile of the oils. The local variety, Tonda Calabrese, is renowned for its rich fruity flavour with a slightly bitter aftertaste. It is a key ingredient in many Aspromonte dishes and is a symbol of the region’s culinary heritage.
Lastly, the Aspromonte region is also known for its liquor production. Specifically, there is a popular walnut liquor called Nocino dell’Aspromonte. This nutty, sweet liquor is usually produced in late June after the green walnuts have been picked and left to soak in grappa, cinnamon, cloves, orange zest and sugar. The mixture is then bottled and aged for about 6 months. It is usually served chilled as an after-dinner digestive or mixed in cocktails.
In conclusion, the products of Aspromonte reflects the traditions and culture of the region, giving the food a unique and unparalleled flavour. From spicy pork sausages to cheese and everything in-between, Aspromonte is a food lover’s paradise which boasts of its signature local produce. These products remain a testament to their heritage and continue to be a source of pride for the people of Aspromonte. So, when you visit this beautiful region in Italy, make sure to taste and savour these typical products that cannot be found anywhere else.