Prosciutto can be expensive, especially if you use it in an appetizer or salad with only one ounce of meat.
If you want to save money and still have a satisfying treat, consider some of these prosciutto substitutes. They’ll make your taste buds happy!
Prosciutto is one of the most popular meats in the world. It’s used in many different recipes to add salty, savory flavor to any dish.
However, prosciutto can be pretty expensive. This guide will discuss how to substitute something similar for it in recipes.
So you can get your fix without breaking the bank!
1. Serrano Ham
Serrano ham is a cured ham originating from the mountains of Spain. It is made from the pig’s hind leg and cured for several months.
The taste is similar to prosciutto but less salty and can be used as a substitute.
2. Capicola
Capicola, also known as gabagool, is an Italian dry-cured ham similar to prosciutto. It is an excellent substitute for prosciutto because it has a similar flavor and texture.
Plus, it is easy to find at most grocery stores. If you can’t find capicola, try one of these other substitutes for prosciutto.
3. Cheese
Cheese is a classic substitute for prosciutto. After all, what’s not to love about cheese? It’s delicious, versatile, and easy to find.
Plus, there are so many different types of cheese that you’re sure to find one that you love. Here are the perfect substitutes for prosciutto: spicy Jalapeño Pepperjack.
Spicy Jalapeño Pepperjack has an incredibly mild flavor with just the right amount of spice. Add this cheese as a topping to your favorite dishes, or enjoy it straight out of the package.
4. Pancetta
You can use pancetta as a 1:1 substitute for prosciutto in any dish. Pancetta is salt-cured like prosciutto but not air-dried, so it has a softer texture.
However, it also has a bit more fat, making it richer and more flavorful. Pancetta is your best bet if you’re looking for a comparable substitute for prosciutto.
5. Bacon
Bacon is one of the most popular substitutes for prosciutto. It has a similar salty and savory flavor and can be used in many of the same dishes. Plus, it’s easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
Notwithstanding, If you’re looking for a substitute closer to prosciutto in terms of texture, try pancetta. It is an Italian cured meat but has a slightly different flavor.
Italian bacon is made from pork meat, but it does not have the same taste or consistency as the Italian cured ham called prosciutto.
I would recommend using thick-cut bacon instead. Bacon slices are easy to find and work fine in most recipes that call for prosciutto.
But if you want to get creative with substitutions, this works as a substitute for Proscuitto when sliced paper thin, making it perfect if you’re working on an appetizer platter or something of that nature.
6. Culatello
Culatello is a type of dry-cured ham similar to prosciutto. The main difference is that it is made from the hind leg of the pig rather than the front leg.
This gives it a more intense flavor and a higher fat content. However, it can be used in the same way as prosciutto and makes an excellent substitute for it.
7. Soppressata
Soppressata is a dry-cured salami that is popular in Southern Italy. It is made from pork and beef seasoned with fennel, garlic, and paprika. Moreover, Soppressata has a similar flavor to prosciutto but is less salty.
You can use Soppressata the same way you would use prosciutto. It can also be wrapped around melon or figs or eaten as an appetizer.
8. Guanciale
Guanciale is an Italian cured meat product made from pork jowl or cheek. Like prosciutto, it is often used to wrap other ingredients.
However, guanciale has a more robust flavor and is less salty than prosciutto. Additionally, guanciale is less likely to be sliced as thinly as prosciutto, making it a heartier option.
9. Salami
When finding a substitute for prosciutto, salami is often the first option that comes to mind. For a good reason, salami is cured, like prosciutto, and has a similar flavor profile. Plus, it’s easy to find at most grocery stores.
Regardless, there are a few things to remember when using salami as a substitute. First, because it is cured, salami can be pretty salty.
So, another option may be better if you’re looking to cut down on salt. Second, salami is typically made with pork, so you’ll need to check the labels if you’re looking for a non-pork opportunity.
10. Tofu
Tofu is an excellent substitute for prosciutto because it has a similar texture and can be easily flavored to taste like the real thing.
Plus, tofu is a healthy alternative to prosciutto, so you can feel good about eating it. Here are some tips for using tofu as a substitute for prosciutto.
Firstly, drain the tofu and press it between two paper towels to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
Season the tofu with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the tofu slices until they are browned on both sides.
11. Mortadella
Mortadella is a smooth, flavorful Italian deli meat that makes an excellent substitute for prosciutto. It’s similar in taste and texture but is usually cheaper and easier to find. All in all, If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey or chicken mortadella. Both are lower in fat and calories than their pork counterpart.
12. Mushroom
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, mushrooms are an excellent substitute for prosciutto. They can be cooked in similar ways and have a similar texture. Plus, they absorb flavors well so that you can get creative with your seasonings.
For example, Here are some of our favorite mushroom substitutes for prosciutto: Portobello mushrooms, Oyster mushrooms, Shiitake mushrooms, Cremini mushrooms, White button mushrooms, Baby Bella mushrooms, and Enoki mushrooms.
13. Beef Bresaola
Bresaola is a type of cured and air-dried beef from the Lombardy region of Italy. It has a firm texture and is sliced thinly. It can be eaten as-is or used as an ingredient in dishes and can also substitute for prosciutto.
Moreover, bresaola is a cured beef from the Lombardy region of Italy. It’s made from the top round or eye of round beef that is trimmed, salted, and then air-dried for several months.
The result is a slice of flavorful meat that can be thinly sliced and eaten as-is or used as an ingredient in dishes.
14. Deli Ham
Prosciutto is the perfect ingredient when you’re in the mood for something salty and savory. But sometimes, you may not have any on hand (or be looking for a healthier option). Luckily, there are plenty of substitutes for prosciutto that will still make your taste buds happy.
15. Duck Prosciutto
Duck prosciutto is an excellent substitute for the more traditional pork-based prosciutto. It has a similar taste and texture but with a richer flavor.
Plus, duck prosciutto is lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier option. Here are duck prosciutto recipes that will make your taste buds happy.
First on our list of recipes to try is Crispy Skin Duck Breast with Blackberry Sauce. The crispy skin gives this dish the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness.
In contrast, the blackberry sauce gives a sweet note to contrast the saltiness of the prosciutto. Next is whole Roasted Peking Duck Legs – Honey Glazed Chestnuts, Thyme, and Caramelized Onion, which provides hearty flavors in every bite.
16. Spinach
Popeye was onto something when he ate spinach to gain strength. This leafy green is not only packed with nutrients, but it also makes a great stand-in for prosciutto.
On the other hand, when thinly sliced and pan-fried, spinach can take on a similar texture to prosciutto. Plus, it’s a fraction of the price.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Substitutes for prosciutto will leave your taste buds just as satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or want to switch things up, any of these substitutes will do the trick.
Be sure to experiment and find the perfect one. You might even like some of them better than prosciutto!
