Calabrian 'Nduja

What is it and its history

Nduja di Spilinga is one of the most iconic and celebrated products of Calabrian culinary tradition, a spicy, spreadable salami that embodies the essence of Southern Italian gastronomy. This article aims to explore the historical roots, curiosities, and unique features of ‘Nduja, while also offering tips on where to best enjoy it during your stay at Villaggio Camping Formicoli.

‘Nduja is a soft cured sausage, characterized by a high content of spicy red chili peppers, which gives it its distinctive bright red color and bold, spicy flavor. Its unique texture makes it spreadable, setting it apart from other cured meats and allowing for versatile use in the kitchen, from simple bruschetta to pasta sauces and pizza toppings.

The birth of ‘Nduja is rooted in the small village of Spilinga, in the heart of Calabria, where the tradition of its production has been passed down through generations.

Although its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, it is believed that ‘Nduja was born out of the need to preserve pork efficiently, using red chili peppers not only for their characteristic flavor but also for their preservative properties.

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Where to eat 'Nduja

‘Nduja di Spilinga can be enjoyed in numerous restaurants and trattorias throughout Calabria, where it is offered in a variety of traditional and innovative recipes.

For those staying at Villaggio Camping Formicoli, there will be plenty of opportunities to taste this unique product, both in local establishments and by participating in dedicated gastronomic events, where ‘Nduja is often the star.

Curiosities about 'Nduja

'Nduja Festival:

Every year, Spilinga celebrates its most famous creation with the 'Nduja Festival, an event that attracts visitors from all over Italy and beyond, eager to discover the many faces of this cured meat.

Versatility in the kitchen:

'Nduja has won over chefs and food enthusiasts for its incredible versatility. It can be used in sauces, as a pasta condiment, on pizzas, or simply spread on homemade bread.

Benefits of chili pepper:

In addition to its indisputable gastronomic contribution, red chili pepper, the main ingredient of 'Nduja, is known for its beneficial properties, including its positive effect on blood circulation and anti-inflammatory properties.

Why 'Nduja is an experience not to be missed

Tasting ‘Nduja means immersing yourself in the culture and traditions of Calabria, a land of sun, sea, and intense flavors. This product is not just a cured meat, but a symbol of a region that, despite its challenges, has managed to highlight its resources, transforming simple ingredients into a specialty known and appreciated worldwide.

‘Nduja di Spilinga represents an unmissable culinary experience for those visiting Calabria and, in particular, for the guests of Villaggio Camping Formicoli. Discovering ‘Nduja means exploring an authentic piece of Calabrian gastronomic heritage, a journey through flavors that honors the history, passion, and innovation of this beautiful land.

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