Mortadella: Origins, History and Rosie’s Sidekick
Growing up, mortadella was a staple in Freddy’s home. A good mortadella and provolone sandwich – YUM! It’s no wonder he has continued that love of mortadella throughout the years.
This delicious Italian sausage is having a resurgence right now. But did you know that mortadella has a long history dating back to ancient times? Here is a little history of mortadella and why we love it so much!
Ancient Origins
The origins of mortadella can be traced back to ancient Rome. The Romans are believed to have created a type of sausage known as “farcimen mirtatum,” which was made from a mixture of finely ground pork and various spices. The name “mortadella” is thought to be derived from the Latin words “myrtum” or “murtatum,” referring to the use of myrtle berries as a flavoring agent in the sausage.
Middle Ages
Mortadella continued to evolve during the Middle Ages in Italy. In the city of Bologna, in the Emilia-Romagna region, mortadella gained popularity, and this city is often associated with the most famous type of mortadella, known as “Mortadella di Bologna.”
Renaissance
By the Renaissance period, mortadella had become a staple in Italian cuisine, and it was often served at banquets and feasts. It was considered a delicacy and was made with high-quality ingredients, including lean cuts of pork and a blend of spices.
Industrialization
In the 19th century, with the advent of industrialization, the production of mortadella began to be more standardized and mass-produced. This allowed for greater consistency in the product, and mortadella became more widely available to the general population.
Traditional Ingredients
Mortadella traditionally consists of finely ground pork meat, which is combined with small cubes of fat, myrtle berries, and a mixture of spices such as black pepper, coriander, and nutmeg. The mixture is then stuffed into a casing and slow-cooked.
Modern Variations
Over time, various regional variations of mortadella have emerged in Italy. While “Mortadella di Bologna” remains the most famous and widely recognized, different regions have put their own spin on the sausage, incorporating local ingredients and flavors.
International Popularity
Mortadella has gained popularity outside of Italy and is commonly found in many countries worldwide. It is often used in sandwiches, salads, and antipasti. In some countries, mortadella is known by different names and may have unique regional variations.
Rosie’s Sidekick Loves Mortadella
In the United States, you can find mortadella in the deli cases of Italian, European and specialty grocery stores. And of course, you’ll find it at Rosie’s Sidekick Sandwich Shop! We use a pistachio-free version in our Italian Sub and Muffuletta sandwich, and of course you can create your own sandwich as well. We’ll be adding it to a couple new mortadella sandwiches in the near future as well. The sandwich in the video is thin-sliced mortadella and fresh burrata cheese with toasted pistachios, Sicilian olive oil, balsamic glaze, and pesto! Ask for it today – it’s oh so good!
For more information about the sandwiches at Rosie’s Sidekick Sandwich Shop & Catering or to order online, go to www.rosiessidekick.com. Or contact us at 773-697-3000.
