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'''Capocollo''' (also known as '''coppa''') is a traditional Italian and Corsican pork cold cut (salume) made from the dry-cured muscle running from the neck to the 4th or 5th rib of the pork shoulder or neck. It is a whole muscle salume, dry cured, and typically sliced very thin. It is similar to the more widely known cured ham or prosciutto, because they are both pork-derived cold-cuts used in similar dishes.
{{short description|Italian traditional cured meat}}
{{italic title}}


==Etymology==
'''Capocollo''' (also known as '''coppa''', '''capicola''', or '''gabagool''') is a traditional Italian and Corsican pork cold cut made from the dry-cured muscle running from the neck to the fourth or fifth rib of the pork shoulder or neck. It is a popular [[salumi]] in Italy and is known for its rich flavor and tender texture.
The name '''capocollo''' comes from ''capo'' ("head") and ''collo'' ("neck") of a pig. The word '''capocollo''' is of Italian origin and its first known use dates back to the 19th century.


==Production==
==Production==
The production of '''capocollo''' involves first selecting the finest pork necks which are then salted and traditionally flavored with red and/or white wine, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices that differs depending on the regional cuisine. The meat is then left to cure for six months or more.
[[File:Coppa_di_Parma.jpg|thumb|right|Coppa di Parma]]
The production of capocollo involves several steps, starting with the selection of high-quality pork. The meat is carefully trimmed and seasoned with a mixture of [[spices]], which may include [[black pepper]], [[garlic]], and [[herbs]]. The seasoned meat is then encased in a natural casing and tied tightly with string.


==Regional Varieties==
The curing process is crucial to developing the characteristic flavor of capocollo. The meat is hung to dry in a controlled environment, where it undergoes a slow curing process that can last from several weeks to several months. During this time, the flavors intensify, and the meat becomes tender and aromatic.
There are many regional varieties of '''capocollo''', each with their own unique taste and texture characteristics. Some of these include:
* '''[[Capocollo di Calabria]]''', which is smoked and has a spicy flavor.
* '''[[Capocollo di Martina Franca]]''', which is cured in a casing made from a pig's bladder, giving it a unique flavor.
* '''[[Capocollo di Molise]]''', which is seasoned with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic, and wine.


==Serving==
==Regional Variations==
'''Capocollo''' is often served in thin slices, either on its own or as part of an antipasto platter. It can also be used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches and pasta.
[[File:Sweetcapicola.JPG|thumb|left|Sweet capicola]]
Capocollo is produced in various regions of Italy, each with its own unique twist on the traditional recipe. In [[Calabria]], for example, capocollo is often spiced with hot [[red pepper]], giving it a distinctive spicy flavor. In [[Tuscany]], the meat is sometimes smoked, adding a different dimension to its taste.


==Related Terms==
In [[Corsica]], capocollo is known as "coppa" and is made using similar methods, but with local variations in seasoning and curing techniques. The Corsican version is often enjoyed as part of a traditional charcuterie platter.
* '''[[Salume]]''' - A general term for Italian cold cuts.
* '''[[Prosciutto]]''' - Another type of Italian cold cut, made from a different cut of pork.
* '''[[Antipasto]]''' - An Italian appetizer that often includes capocollo.


==See Also==
==Serving Suggestions==
* [[List of dried foods]]
Capocollo is typically sliced thin and served as an [[antipasto]], often accompanied by [[cheese]], [[olives]], and [[bread]]. It can also be used as a flavorful addition to [[sandwiches]], [[pasta dishes]], and [[salads]].
* [[List of smoked foods]]
 
==Cultural Significance==
Capocollo holds a special place in Italian culinary tradition and is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings. Its rich flavor and artisanal production methods make it a cherished delicacy among food enthusiasts.
 
==Related Pages==
* [[Salumi]]
* [[Prosciutto]]
* [[Pancetta]]
* [[Charcuterie]]
 
[[File:Capocollo_di_martina.jpg|thumb|right|Capocollo di Martina Franca]]


[[Category:Italian cuisine]]
[[Category:Italian cuisine]]
[[Category:Cold cuts]]
[[Category:Cured meat]]
[[Category:Pork]]
[[Category:Pork dishes]]
 
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Latest revision as of 14:10, 21 February 2025

Italian traditional cured meat



Capocollo (also known as coppa, capicola, or gabagool) is a traditional Italian and Corsican pork cold cut made from the dry-cured muscle running from the neck to the fourth or fifth rib of the pork shoulder or neck. It is a popular salumi in Italy and is known for its rich flavor and tender texture.

Production[edit]

Coppa di Parma

The production of capocollo involves several steps, starting with the selection of high-quality pork. The meat is carefully trimmed and seasoned with a mixture of spices, which may include black pepper, garlic, and herbs. The seasoned meat is then encased in a natural casing and tied tightly with string.

The curing process is crucial to developing the characteristic flavor of capocollo. The meat is hung to dry in a controlled environment, where it undergoes a slow curing process that can last from several weeks to several months. During this time, the flavors intensify, and the meat becomes tender and aromatic.

Regional Variations[edit]

Sweet capicola

Capocollo is produced in various regions of Italy, each with its own unique twist on the traditional recipe. In Calabria, for example, capocollo is often spiced with hot red pepper, giving it a distinctive spicy flavor. In Tuscany, the meat is sometimes smoked, adding a different dimension to its taste.

In Corsica, capocollo is known as "coppa" and is made using similar methods, but with local variations in seasoning and curing techniques. The Corsican version is often enjoyed as part of a traditional charcuterie platter.

Serving Suggestions[edit]

Capocollo is typically sliced thin and served as an antipasto, often accompanied by cheese, olives, and bread. It can also be used as a flavorful addition to sandwiches, pasta dishes, and salads.

Cultural Significance[edit]

Capocollo holds a special place in Italian culinary tradition and is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings. Its rich flavor and artisanal production methods make it a cherished delicacy among food enthusiasts.

Related Pages[edit]

Capocollo di Martina Franca