Saucisson

Saucisson is a variety of thick, dry cured sausage that originates from France. Typically made of pork, or a mixture of pork and other meats, saucisson is a staple of French charcuterie.

History

The history of saucisson dates back to ancient times. The Romans, who were fond of cured meats, likely introduced the technique to the Gauls after their conquest of the region that is now modern-day France. The term "saucisson" comes from the Latin salsus, meaning "salted".

Production

Saucisson is made by stuffing a natural or synthetic casing with coarsely chopped or ground meat, salt, spices, and sometimes wine or brandy. The stuffed casing is then hung to dry for several weeks or even months. The length of the curing process depends on the size of the sausage and the desired level of dryness.

Varieties

There are many varieties of saucisson, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular include:

• Saucisson de Lyon: A sausage from the city of Lyon, known for its delicate flavor and fine texture.
• Saucisson de Montagne: A mountain sausage, typically made with game meats and flavored with juniper berries.
• Saucisson d'Arles: A sausage from the city of Arles, made with a high proportion of fat and flavored with black pepper.

Serving

Saucisson is typically served sliced thin as part of a charcuterie board, along with other cured meats, cheese, and bread. It can also be used in cooking, where it adds a rich, savory flavor to dishes.

See also

• Salami
• Chorizo
• Pepperoni
• Andouille