prosciutto
Prosciutto is a type of Italian dry-cured ham that is typically served thinly sliced and uncooked. The mental image is of a delicate, paper-thin, ruby-red slice of meat that has been seasoned with salt and air-dried for months, resulting in a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. In culinary contexts, it is almost always referred to by its Italian name rather than "cured ham." It is most commonly enjoyed on its own, wrapped around melon or figs, or layered onto charcuterie boards. It is considered a premium ingredient and is rarely cooked, as heat ruins its subtle, savory flavor profile.
In conversation
Ordering at a deli counter
Can I get a quarter pound of the prosciutto, please?
Can I get a quarter pound of the prosciutto, please?
Sure thing, would you like it sliced paper-thin?
Sure thing, would you like it sliced paper-thin?
Prosciutto is almost always requested sliced very thin to preserve its texture.
Planning a dinner party
Should we do a cheese board for the appetizer?
Should we do a cheese board for the appetizer?
Yes, let's grab some prosciutto and fresh figs to go with the brie.
Yes, let's grab some prosciutto and fresh figs to go with the brie.
Prosciutto is a classic pairing for sweet fruits like figs or melon.
Examples
I love prosciutto on pizza.
I love prosciutto on pizza.
The chef wrapped the asparagus in prosciutto before roasting it.
The chef wrapped the asparagus in prosciutto before roasting it.
Thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma is widely considered the gold standard of Italian charcuterie.
Thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma is widely considered the gold standard of Italian charcuterie.
