Mortadella di Campotosto facts for kids
Mortadella di Campotosto is a special type of salami (a kind of cured meat, like a sausage) that comes from a small town called Campotosto in Abruzzo, Italy. People sometimes call it "mule balls" because of its unique shape. It's made in small amounts, making it quite rare!
A Long History
This special salami has a very old history, going back more than 500 years! For a while, another city called Amatrice claimed they invented it. This was because Amatrice used to rule over Campotosto a long time ago, in the Middle Ages.
Today, only a few people in Campotosto still make this traditional mortadella. This means not many people get to taste it because it's so hard to find. It's even listed in the Slow Food movement's Ark of Taste. This is an international list of special foods that are in danger of disappearing.
What is Mortadella di Campotosto?
Mortadella di Campotosto is made only from pork. The pigs used to be raised by shepherds and farmers in the Monti della Laga mountains.
Shape and Look
This salami has an egg-like (ovoid) shape. It traditionally weighs about 330 grams. When you slice it, the meat looks finely ground and pink. Inside, there's a white strip of lard (pork fat) that runs all the way through it. This white strip makes it different from other cured meats.
How It's Made
Making this salami is a careful process:
- First, the pork meat is ground very, very finely.
- Then, it's seasoned with salt, pepper, and white wine.
- The seasoned meat mix rests for at least 24 hours. It sits in a wooden or steel container called a "scifone."
- During this time, the mixture is stirred many times. People add an infusion (a liquid made by steeping ingredients) of cloves and cinnamon.
The meat is then put into its casing by hand. The casing is sewn around the meat. A small wooden stand is attached to the bottom. This helps to wrap the string as the salami dries and shrinks.
The mortadella is ready to eat at least three months after it's made. This long waiting time helps it develop its special flavor.
See also
In Spanish: Mortadela de Campotosto para niños
