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What Is ‘Nduja Sausage?

By: Author Andrew Gray

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Stumbling upon ‘nduja sausage was one of those “aha!” moments that made us do a happy dance in the aisle. It’s a spicy, spreadable salami from Italy that adds a punch to any meal.

If you’re looking to spice things up in your cooking, this little wonder can work wonders.

We love slathering it on bread, using it in pasta, or even dolloping it on pizza for that extra kick.

Curious to learn more about how to use this flavorful sausage in your dishes? Get ready to unleash some deliciousness on your plate!

What is ‘Nduja Sausage?

‘Nduja sausage is a delightful treat that hails from the Calabria region of Italy, particularly the charming town of Spilinga.

This part of Italy is stunning, with rolling hills and picturesque views that scream flavor.

Now, let’s talk about what ‘nduja actually is. It’s made from various cuts of pork and mixed with zesty Calabrian chili peppers.

The process involves mincing the meat, casing it up, and then giving it that wonderful smoky finish.

We find it’s best enjoyed as a spread—you know, slathered on bread or crackers. It’s not just for snacking; it works beautifully in pasta sauces, soups, scrambled eggs, and as a topping for pizza.

It adds a rich and spicy flair to just about anything you throw it on!

Is ‘Nduja Sausage Spicy?

The short answer? Yes! But not blow-your-mind spicy. It has a moderate heat level that adds depth and flavor to your dishes without being overwhelmingly hot.

If you’re someone who can’t handle any level of spice, then this sausage might be a bit too much for you.

However, if you enjoy a little kick in your meals, ‘nduja is the perfect addition.

It’s also worth noting that the spiciness can vary depending on the brand or type of Calabrian chili peppers used. So, if you’re looking to test out different levels of heat, feel free to experiment with different ‘nduja sausages.

Protip: if you find a brand you love, try to stick with it for consistency in your dishes.

How to Use ‘Nduja Sausage

Now comes the fun part: using ‘nduja sausage in your cooking! One of our favorite ways to enjoy it is by spreading it on bread or crackers. It makes a perfect pre-dinner snack or appetizer.

But the possibilities don’t end there! Here are some other ways to use this versatile sausage:

  • Mix into pasta sauces for an added depth of flavor and spice.
  • Add a dollop on top of pizza before baking for a punch of heat.
  • Stir into soups and stews for a rich and spicy kick.
  • Incorporate into your scrambled eggs for a breakfast with a kick.

Just remember, a little goes a long way with this sausage, so start small until you find the perfect amount for your taste buds.

Where to Buy ‘Nduja Sausage

You can typically find ‘nduja sausage in specialty Italian markets or gourmet food stores.

If you don’t have any of those nearby, don’t worry! You can also purchase it online from various retailers.

Some brands even offer different levels of spiciness, so you can find one that suits your preferences best.

Go ahead and give ‘nduja sausage a try – we guarantee it’ll become a new pantry staple in no time. Your taste buds will thank you! And hey, maybe it’ll inspire your own happy dance in the grocery store aisle too.

Can You Eat ‘Nduja Sausage Raw?

Nope, ‘nduja isn’t meant to be eaten raw. It’s a cured sausage, so it needs to be cooked before consumption.

However, you can use it as a spread on bread or crackers without cooking it beforehand.

Just keep in mind that the texture and taste of ‘nduja will change when heated. It’ll become softer and spread more easily, but the flavor will also mellow out a bit.

So if you’re looking for maximum spiciness and intensity, enjoy it cold! Otherwise, feel free to experiment with different ways of using this versatile sausage in your meals.