FOOD NEWS
What's The Difference Between Pepperoni And Salami?
BY MOLLY HARRIS
While they share the same curing process and basic ingredients, pepperoni and salami differ in their flavor profiles, textures, the meats they're made from, and how they're used.
Pepperoni is a type of salami with a characteristically bold taste. In contrast, salami encompasses a broader category of cured sausages with countless regional variations.
Salami is a centuries-old, quintessentially Italian dish. Pepperoni, on the other hand, is American, thanks to Italian immigrants who adapted their culinary traditions.
While pepperoni is typically made of a beef and pork blend, salami can be made from meats such as beef, venison, and other meats, but pork is most common.
Given its straightforward ingredients and spices, most pepperoni has a similar spicy taste. Salami, with its varying meats and spices, is more nuanced and varied in flavor.
Texturally, pepperoni is quite smooth and uniform across each bite, while salami can vary across regional styles from smooth and firm to coarse and chunky.
In terms of uses, pepperoni is mostly relegated to a pizza topping, but salami can be used in many ways from charcuterie, pasta, omelets, and salads to sandwiches or even pizzas.