Metworst facts for kids
Metworst (pronounced MET-worst) is a special kind of traditional Dutch sausage. It's also known as droge worst (pronounced DRO-guh worst), which means "dry sausage." This sausage has a strong taste and is made from raw minced pork. After it's made, it's left to air dry, which gives it its unique texture and flavor.
The name droge worst simply describes how the sausage is made and how it feels – it's dry! The name metworst comes from an old Low German word, mett, meaning "minced pork without bacon." Even though its name sounds like the German Mettwurst, they are actually very different in taste and how they are prepared.
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What is Metworst?
Metworst is a type of sausage that is popular in the Netherlands. It's known for being quite firm and having a rich, savory flavor. Unlike some sausages you might cook, metworst is usually eaten as a cold snack or on bread.
How is it Made?
Making metworst involves a few key steps. First, minced pork is seasoned with spices. Then, it's shaped into sausages. The most important part is the air drying process. The sausages are hung in places where the wind can dry them out. This drying process helps to preserve the sausage and gives it its firm texture and strong taste. The best places for this are often in the northern parts of the Netherlands, like Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe, because of their windy conditions.
Where Can You Find Metworst?
Metworst is a traditional food found all over the Netherlands. It's also popular in Flanders, which is part of Belgium. The northern provinces of the Netherlands are especially famous for making metworst. These areas have the perfect weather conditions for air-drying the sausages quickly and effectively.
A Bit of History
Long ago, metworst was a very important food for farmers. Because it could be stored for a long time without going bad, it was a good "emergency" food. Farmers would eat it when they didn't have fresh meat available. As time went on and more meat became available, metworst became a popular lunch item, especially for people working in the fields. It was easy to carry and provided good energy.
Metworst Around the World
While metworst is distinctly Dutch, similar dry sausages exist in other countries.
- Finnish Meetvursti: In Finland, there's a sausage called meetvursti. It's similar to Dutch metworst or salami. It's dry, firm, and has a strong flavor. People usually eat it sliced on bread.
- Swedish Medwurst: In Sweden, a sausage called medwurst is often used for breakfast. It can be boiled or smoked and is typically served on bread.
Metworst is also the ancestor of the South African droë wors. Droë wors is made in a very similar way. However, instead of pork, it's usually made from beef and mutton.
