What meat is Italian sausage? A guide to ingredients and varieties

Italian sausage is probably one of the most famous and desirable sausages in the world. However, what may surprise you is that there isn’t just one type of Italian sausage. The name actually covers many different varieties. All of which are delicious.

The Italians can eat them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is an array of fantastic Italian sausages and pasta recipes worth trying. 

First, it’s time to discover a little about Italian sausages.

Italian sausage varieties and their meat content

 The first question many people ask is, “What type of meat is Italian sausage?” The answer depends on where you are in the country or what meat you prefer. There is certain to be an Italian meat sausage that appeals to you. In fact, pair Italian sausage with rigatoni pasta, and you may find your perfect dish. Of course, meat sauce with Italian sausage is also a great option.

Whatever the answer to what meat is Italian sausage, you can be assured that the sausages are 100% high-quality meat with just a little seasoning. That applies to all varieties and is one of the reasons they taste so good.

Pork-based Italian sausage

There are several answers to what type of meat is Italian sausage; some of the best are pork. Tuscany is famous for its Finocchiona sausage. It’s made with pork, usually from the shoulder, neck, rump, or belly. It’s finely ground and mixed with fennel to give it a unique, slightly sweet taste.

This sausage is the reason many people answer pork to the question “What meat is Italian sausage?” If it’s cured for a short time, it's crumbly. Cure for a long time, and you’ll have a firm and slightly dry Italian meat sausage. Another popular variety is Genoa Italian sausage. What meat, you ask? It also uses pork. But this one is mixed with garlic, peppercorns, and a little red wine. This type of Italian sausage isn’t cooked; it’s cured. That gives it a moist, slightly greasy texture, which is balanced by the sharp and spicy flavour. That’s not all! If you’re interested in meat sauce with Italian sausage, then try the Mortadella Bologna. It’s also made from pork. This Italian sausage is what meat flavour is all about. It tastes like an explosion of spice in your mouth. That’s thanks to the coriander and pepper in the sausage.

That’s just a few of the impressive options available. You need to try as many as possible.

Beef and other alternatives

The reason people say pork to “Italian sausage is what meat?” is because they are predominantly pork. However, in some parts of Italy, beef is the preferred option. In these cases, the sausages are prepared in the same way as pork sausages, and they are generally mixed with the same spices. Fennel is a particularly popular option.

Naturally, the texture and taste is different to pork, but they are still an excellent option, especially with an Italian meat sauce.

Is Italian sausage a processed meat?

The question “Is Italian sausage a processed meat?” is important to anyone trying to live a healthier lifestyle. The good news is, if you opt for fresh Italian sausage, then there is minimal processing. If you prefer the taste of a cured sausage, then you should know that these sausages undergo a preservation process. Technically, this means they are processed, but it’s significantly less than the processed foods you’ll see in supermarkets.

Conclusion

The array of Italian sausages, predominantly made with pork, is astounding. We recommend you get some today and enjoy them by themselves or as part of a traditional Italian recipe.

It will be a delight to your taste buds.