Old world pepperoni is a type of Italian cured sausage that is made from ground pork and spices. It is typically flavored with paprika, garlic, and black pepper, and is aged for a period of time to develop its flavor. Old world pepperoni is typically sliced thin and used as a topping for pizzas and sandwiches, or as an ingredient in dishes such as pasta sauces and omelets.
Old world pepperoni is characterized by its spicy, slightly sweet flavor and its distinctive reddish color, which is imparted by the paprika in the spice mix. It is typically made using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations, and it is considered to be a more authentic and flavorful version of pepperoni compared to mass-produced commercial brands.
In contrast, mass-produced commercial brands of pepperoni are often made with a combination of artificial ingredients and preservatives, and are not aged for as long as old world pepperoni. These factors can affect the flavor and texture of the pepperoni, and may make it less authentic and flavorful compared to old world pepperoni.
There are many variations of old world pepperoni, with different recipes and curing methods used by different regions and producers. Some versions may be made with a combination of pork and beef, or may include other ingredients such as red wine or fennel seeds.
Why do they call it old world pepperoni?
Old world pepperoni is called "old world" because it is a traditional, artisanal version of pepperoni that is made using traditional methods and ingredients. These methods and ingredients are thought to be similar to those used in Italy and other parts of Europe many centuries ago, hence the term "old world."
Pepperoni vs. Old World Pepperoni
Pepperoni and old world pepperoni are both types of Italian cured sausage that are made from ground pork and spices. However, there are some key differences between the two:
Ingredients
Old world pepperoni is made with natural, high-quality ingredients and does not have artificial preservatives or additives, while commercial brands of pepperoni may include artificial ingredients and preservatives that can change the flavor and texture of the sausage.
Flavor and texture
Old world pepperoni has a spicy and slightly sweet taste, and a reddish color, while commercial brands of pepperoni may have a less distinct, milder flavor and may not be as moist or tender as old world pepperoni.
Production methods
Old world pepperoni is made using traditional methods and recipes by small, artisanal producers, while commercial brands of pepperoni are often produced in large quantities using automated methods, which may result in a less consistent product.
In general, old world pepperoni is considered to be a higher-quality and more authentic version of pepperoni compared to mass-produced commercial brands. It is made with natural ingredients and traditional methods, and has a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
Why is Old World Pepperoni Curly?
Old world pepperoni, like other types of cured sausage, curls as it cooks because of the way it is shaped and the way the fat in the sausage renders (melts) during cooking.
When old world pepperoni is made, it is usually formed into a cylindrical shape and then sliced into thin rounds. The edges of these slices are exposed to heat when the pepperoni is cooked, which causes the fat on the edges to render (melt) more quickly than the fat in the center of the sausage. This causes the edges of the pepperoni slices to curl up as they cook, while the center remains relatively flat.
The amount of curl in old world pepperoni can also be affected by the level of fat in the sausage, as well as the cooking method and temperature. Pepperoni with a higher fat content will tend to curl more as it cooks, while pepperoni with a lower fat content may curl less. Additionally, pepperoni that is cooked at higher temperatures or for a longer period of time will tend to curl more than pepperoni that is cooked at lower temperatures or for a shorter period of time.
photo credit: HarshLight via Wikipedia
Annie Shepherd is a 38-year-old woman who loves reading, swimming, and practicing yoga. In her free time, she enjoys writing a blog about all things related to the kitchen and food. When she's not busy working or keeping up with her hobbies, Annie can be found trying out new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients in the kitchen.
