I wouldn’t argue that this spicy salami spread compares to real nduja in terms of quality, but it does need around three months less time to prepare while retaining the majority of the outstanding qualities of the Calabrian delicacy. If you are unfamiliar with nduja, some of its qualities include a rich, spicy, extremely savory flavor and a soft, opulent texture. Present the spread as a self-serve option next to the toast, or top with fresh herbs to make crostini as an appetizer.
| Prep Time: | 15 mins |
| Cook Time: | 5 mins |
| Additional Time: | 8 hrs |
| Total Time: | 8 hrs 20 mins |
| Servings: | 16 |
| Yield: | 2 cups |
Ingredients
- 4 ounces thinly sliced pancetta
- ⅓ cup Calabrian chili peppers in oil
- 12 ounces sliced salami
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, or more as needed
- ¼ cup butter, at room temperature
Instructions
- Add pancetta to a cold pan. Cook over medium heat, tossing occasionally, until pancetta just starts to crisp up, 4 to 5 minutes.
- Remove pepper stems and, if desired, seeds. Reserve 2 or 3 tablespoons of the oil.
- Separate salami pieces slightly and place in a food processor. Add the pancetta, chili oil, and Calabrian peppers. Pulse on and off until mixture is finely ground. Add olive oil and butter. Process until as smooth and spreadable as desired.
- Transfer spread to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate, 8 hours to overnight, for best flavor.
- You can substitute bacon for the pancetta, but since bacon is smoked, your final product will taste significantly different.
- Any decent Italian market should carry the oil-packed Calabrian chilies, but if that doesn’t work, you can find them online as well. Or use another spicy, jarred pepper product like sambal, or simply use fresh hot chilies like Fresno, or cherry peppers. If it’s spicy, and it’s a pepper, it will work.
- I used soppressata and Calabrese salami, though any salami will work here.
Reviews
I use Trader Joe’s Bomba sauce instead of the individual chilis. I also use Hot Capicola as my base, sometimes I’ll add a little hard salami to balance it out. I also add chunks of parmigiana cheese to give it a richer flavor
Too good!
Great flavored spread… just make sure people know that it’s Hot
This is a good recipe, and my party guests enjoyed it. Next time, I’ll be a bit more choosy about the quality of salami/meat I use. Make sure to get all the ingredients to room temp before blending- this will help alot!
Love it!