Difference between Hard Salami and Genoa Salami

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.

Hard salami, as the name suggests, is firmer and drier than Genoa salami and is slightly chewy.
The fat content in Genoa salami is high, and it has a greasier texture.

Meat used

It is either made only of ground beef or is made with a combination of beef and pork (more of beef and a little of pork).
It is either made entirely of pork, or sometimes beef may be added to it.

Color

As it contains higher quantity of beef, hard salami is slightly darker than Genoa salami.

Related Post

Flavor

Garlic and spices are added to enhance the flavor of both these salami.

It has a fermented flavor as wine is used in the making of this salami.
This type of salami is usually smoked.

Origin

Both these salami are produced in the US.

It has its origins in the city of Northern Italy, Genoa.
This salami is said to have originated from Germany, Poland, and Czechoslovakia.

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.

Genoa salami contains certain spices like white peppercorn that is not present in hard salami.
It contains an additional smoky flavor.

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!

Like it? Share it!

Share

Recent Posts

Beyond Sausage Recipe

Cooking with Beyond Sausage is an excellent way for vegans and flexitarians to enjoy meat-like…

Sip and Feast Recipes

Sip and Feast's recipes are predominantly Italian American in origin; however, there's something here for…

Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl Recipe

Sweetgreen is a fast-casual restaurant known for their vibrant salads and healthy bowls, and their…

Beyond Sausage Recipes

Beyond sausage is an edible vegan meat substitute that works just like its real counterpart,…

Southern Chicken Stew Recipes

Stewing is a popular cooking technique where meat or poultry is first browned before slow…

Top Recteq Recipes For Your Wood Pellet Grill

No matter whether it's slow cooking or quick griddling, your Recteq wood pellet grill will…