Hard salami and Genoa salami can used in a number of ways from a humble sandwich to the oh-so-elegant appetizers. This Tastessence article gives you an account of Genoa salami vs. hard salami.
Useful Tip
In order to increase the shelf life of salami, wrap it in butcher paper or cheese cloth rather than storing it in plastic. This will allow proper air flow, prevent the accumulation of moisture, and may hamper its quality. Also, avoid freezing salami as it will alter the characteristic texture and flavor of the salami.
The word ‘salami’ in English is actually the plural of the Italian word ‘salame’ used to describe this kind of sausage. The word ‘salame’ translates to all types of salted meats. Salami is a form of sausage that is cured, fermented, and air-dried. These sausages have a typical marbled appearance, with specks fat embedded throughout the slice of meat. The texture of the salami is determined by the distribution of fat throughout the meat that is dependent on how the meat is packed. When packed by hand, the fat is seen to be spread in chunks, whereas in machine packing, the fat is equally distributed.
Traditionally, salami was made from different types of meat like pork, beef (or veal), venison, or poultry, either all alone or in combination with other meats. Usually their flavor is enhanced with many spices, garlic, and herbs. There are different kinds of salami available depending on the process used to make them. Though salami is not cooked, they can be eaten “raw” as they have been cured. There are different types of salami available depending on the process used to make them.
Hard Salami Vs. Genoa Salami
Texture
Both these salami fall under the category of dry sausages and have a firm texture.
Meat used
Color
As it contains higher quantity of beef, hard salami is slightly darker than Genoa salami.
Flavor
Garlic and spices are added to enhance the flavor of both these salami.
Origin
Both these salami are produced in the US.
Shelf life
The shelf life of these kinds of deli meats depends on the sell by date mentioned by the manufacturer and on the method used to store it. Once cut or opened, it is best to consume it within 2-3 weeks.
Ingredients
The ingredients used in commercially making of both the salamis are identical; They are made using pork or beef, salt, dextrose, 2% (or less) of flavorings, lactic acid starter culture, sodium nitrite, sodium ascorbate (vitamin C), BHA, BHT, and citric acid.
Nutritional Facts per 10 g
| Hard Salami | |
| Protein | 2.26 g |
| Total Lipid | 3.37 g |
| Potassium | 38 mg |
| Iron | 0.13 mg |
| Sodium | 226 mg |
| Fatty acids, total saturated | 1.189 g |
| Fatty acids, total monounsaturated | 1.6 g |
| Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated | 0.374 g |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg |
| Genoa Salami | |
| Protein | 2.07g |
| Total Lipid | 3.33 g |
| Potassium | 33.4 mg |
| Iron | 0.19 mg |
| Sodium | 182.6 mg |
| Fatty acids, total saturated | 1.20 g |
| Fatty acids, total monounsaturated | 1.7 g |
| Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated | 0.271 g |
| Cholesterol | 10.2 mg |
Can we hear stomachs growling? Time to make a notoriously delicious sandwich by combining any of these salami with some creamy cheese and a dense, chewy bread and munch away!
