What is 'nduja?
Spicy and delectable, 'nduja (pronounced en-doo-ya) might seem like the new kid on the block, but it’s been an Italian favourite for many years. With similarities to chorizo and salami, but all the more decadent, 'nduja is an Italian spreadable sausage with a kick.
What is ‘nduja and what is ‘nduja made of?
'nduja is a spreadable, spicy sausage originating from the Calabria region of Italy. 'nduja is made from pork, herbs, spices, and chillies, giving the sausage it’s classic red colour and fiery heat. It is stuffed into a natural casing or left as a spread, and air-cured to intensify the flavours and prolong the shelf-life. 'nduja does not need to be cooked before eating and is often used as a spread on freshly baked bread. Other uses can include pasta sauces, butter, scrambled eggs, marinades, stews, and of course pizza!
How to use ‘nduja?
'Nduja is a versatile and flavourful ingredient that can be used in many different ways:
- Spread: It can be spread on bread, crackers, or crostini as a snack or appetiser.
- Pasta sauce: It can be mixed with pasta to create a spicy and flavourful sauce.
- Pizza topping: It can be used as a topping on pizza for a spicy kick.
- Meat stuffing: It can be used as a stuffing for poultry, meatloaf, or other meats.
- Sautéed with vegetables: It can be sautéed with vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a spicy and flavourful side dish.
- In stews and soups: It can be added to stews, soups, and other dishes to provide a spicy and savoury flavour.
Note: A little 'nduja goes a long way, as it is very spicy. It is recommended to use it sparingly and adjust to taste.
Where to find ‘nduja?
'Nduja is a specialty product, so it may not be available in all grocery stores. However, it is widely available in specialty food stores, gourmet markets, and local Italian delis. Some large grocery stores may also sell 'nduja, especially those with a well-stocked international or specialty food section. If you are unable to find 'nduja in your local stores, you can order it online from various gourmet food retailers or specialty food websites.
At Prezzo, our Dolce e Piccante (translated to sweet and spicy) pizza uses 'nduja sausage as it’s hero ingredient, along with pepperoni, tomato sauce and fresh Italian mozzarella. We then finish it with red chillies to really turn up the heat, and a generous drizzle of honey to get that sweet and spicy balance of flavours. We know you’re going to love this.