Are you looking to add a little extra flavor to your dishes? Consider using 2 slices (14 g) of Pancetta, a delicious Italian bacon that can add a rich, savory flavor to all sorts of dishes. And the best part? It's just 50 calories!

Pancetta is made from cured pork belly, and it's often used as a substitute for bacon in Italian cuisine. It has a slightly milder flavor than bacon and is less smoky, but it still packs a flavorful punch. Despite its fatty composition, it can be a flavorful and healthful addition to your cooking, in moderation. 2 slices of pancetta contain 5 grams of protein, 0.5 g carbs, 4.5 g fat, and 0 g sugar.

In this article, we'll explore the caloric breakdown of Pancetta, how it compares to bacon, its benefits and drawbacks, how to cook with it, substitutes, pairings, and more.

What is Pancetta?

Pancetta is a type of Italian bacon that comes from the pork belly. Its name is derived from the Italian word pancetta, which means 'little belly'. After being salted and seasoned, pancetta is dried in a cool, dark place for several months. This process gives pancetta its rich flavor and slightly chewy texture. Pancetta is widely used in Italian cuisine for its rich, savory flavor, and is often used as a substitute for bacon in a variety of dishes.

Pancetta's Caloric Breakdown

Pancetta is a high-fat food that can be a flavorful and healthful addition to your diet, in moderation. Two slices (14 g) of pancetta contain just 50 calories. Pancetta is also a good source of protein, with 5 grams per serving, and it's low in carbs and sugar. Although it's high in fat, pancetta can be a great addition to pasta dishes and salads to add flavor without adding too many calories.

Pancetta Versus Bacon

While Pancetta and bacon are both types of Italian-style cured pork, they do have some differences. Pancetta is typically made from pork belly and is often used to add flavor to soups, salads, and pasta dishes. Bacon, on the other hand, can be made from pork belly or back meat and is typically smoked for added flavor. Bacon has a strong, smoky flavor that is more intense than pancetta's milder flavor. While both pancetta and bacon can be used in a variety of dishes, the choice depends on the desired flavor and cooking methods.

Pancetta Benefits and Drawbacks

Pancetta can be a flavorful and versatile ingredient in a number of different dishes. It's perfect for adding flavor to pasta dishes, soups, and salads, and can be substituted for bacon if you're looking for a healthier alternative. Pancetta is also a good source of protein, with 5 grams per serving, and is low in carbohydrates and sugar. Pancetta can also contain a variety of seasonings that add flavor to dishes. However, pancetta is also high in sodium, with 290 mg per serving. It's also high in fat, with 4.5 grams per serving, so it should be consumed in moderation.

Pancetta's Place in Italian Cuisine

Pancetta plays a central role in many traditional Italian dishes. It's often used in soups, pasta dishes, and salads to add a rich, savory flavor. In Italian cuisine, pancetta is prized for its milder flavor and versatility. It's less salty and smoky than its American cousin, bacon, and it's often used to create rich, complex flavors in dishes. Pancetta can be found in everything from pasta carbonara to minestrone soup and can hold its own as a meat ingredient in a variety of dishes.

How to Cook with Pancetta

If you're looking to cook with pancetta, there are a variety of ways to use it. You can saute pancetta in a skillet until crispy, and then add it to pasta dishes, soups, or salads. Alternatively, you can cook pancetta in a soup or stew for added richness and depth of flavor. Pancetta can also be added to salads for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

Pancetta Substitutes

If you're looking for an alternative to pancetta, you have a few options. Bacon can be a suitable substitute if you don't mind the smokiness. Prosciutto can also be used in place of pancetta, as both are Italian-style cured meats. Another great substitute for pancetta is guanciale. Made from Italian cured pork cheek, guanciale has a similar flavor to pancetta but is slightly more savory and rich. Whichever substitute you choose, be aware that the flavor profile may differ slightly from the original recipe.

Pancetta Pairings

Pancetta is an incredibly versatile ingredient that pairs well with many different foods and flavors. One classic pairing is with pasta carbonara, where pancetta is combined with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper to create a rich and savory dish. Pancetta can also be used to add flavor to soups and stews, where its rich flavor can complement other ingredients. And for a quick and easy appetizer, try wrapping pancetta around shrimp or scallops and grilling them for a delicious and flavorful treat.

Pancetta in Sandwiches

Pancetta can be used to add depth and flavor to sandwiches of all kinds. It pairs well with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a variety of spreads and sauces. One delicious way to enjoy pancetta in a sandwich is to make a grilled panini. Simply layer the pancetta with cheese, tomato, and any other desired toppings, and grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Pancetta can also be used as a topping on your favorite sandwich, adding a savory punch of flavor to every bite.

Buying and Storing Pancetta

If you're looking to buy pancetta, you can typically find it in the deli or meat section of your grocery store. Choose a type that's thinly sliced or cubed, as these are often easier to work with. Once you bring your pancetta home, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. This will help keep it fresh and preserve its flavor. If you don't plan on using your pancetta right away, you can also freeze it for up to 6 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer until you're ready to use it.