SOPRASSATA

Sopressata or as the local Italians here call it, soupy.
It's a dried, cured sausage, sort of like pepperoni but with a stronger taste. It is pork with mainly paprika and whole pepper corns. It's recipe is usually a guarded secret and handed down through family only. When I was first introduced to it I thought it was smelly and greasy, but it was so coveted that I had to try it.

I am sure glad that I did. It was an experience that transformed me. My source only made it once a year and convincing him to part with some was not an easy task. He refused to give me the recipe for fear of his family getting mad at him.

Ultimately I was able to find a company in my state that sells it and I was able to locate it at my market in the cheese section. Since making it is probably not going to happen, I can point you to where to buy it online. Daniele inc. is the place to start. They have a tremendous variety of cured meats and they are outstanding in quality. My shameless plug is for the benefit of all who crave good food.