When we talk about cured meat used to add depth to soups and pasta like carbonara, we recall pancetta for it. But if you don’t have it and going to make either carbonara or antipasto, what can you use to replace pancetta-its a big question.
So, I bring more than 20 best substitutes for pancetta with vegan and non-pork versions. Any of the pancetta substitutions work very well with carbonara or soup or if you want pancetta in your dish.
What can you substitute for pancetta?
While you don’t have pancetta, try these 20 alternatives instead-
Bacon, prosciutto, guanciale, ham, American Bacon, Canadian Bacon, capicola, pork belly, salami, smoked sausage, salted pork, smoked ventreche, pork tocino, for non-pork alternative use- smoked turkey or turkey bacon, also for vegan and vegetarian substitution use tempeh, full flavor olives, veg-bacon, vegan salami, porcini mushrooms, etc.
Substitute for Pancetta
1. Prosciutto is a good substitute for pancetta
If you want a substitution for pancetta that will give your dish a similar flavor, try using prosciutto. Pancetta and prosciutto are both cured meats, so they will have a similar salty flavor.
However, prosciutto is thinner and served uncooked, and has a more delicate flavor than pancetta. It is popular charcuterie meat in Italy and many other countries. The flavor of prosciutto is salty and slightly sweet, with a delicate texture.
Prosciutto is often served as an appetizer with melon or other fruits. It can also be used in cooked dishes, such as pasta sauces or risottos. Prosciutto is popularly used in Italian dishes such as pasta carbonara and pizza Margherita.
It can also be wrapped around other ingredients, such as fruits or vegetables, for a flavorful and easy-to-eat appetizer.
Prosciutto is salt-cured ham that has been aged for at least 12 months. It is much drier and more intense in flavor than pancetta. If you can’t find prosciutto, you can use pancetta, but the flavor will be more subtle.
If you want a true Italian flavor, substitute prosciutto for pancetta or want less salty, try using Bacon.
2. Bacon substitute for pancetta
If you want a substitution for pancetta that will give your dish a smoky flavor, Bacon is the way to go.
Bacon is a type of salt-cured pork. Bacon is made from various cuts of pork, typically from the pork belly or from the less fatty back cuts. It is eaten on its own, as a side dish (typically in breakfasts), or used as a minor ingredient to flavor dishes (e.g., the club sandwich).
Bacon is a popular ingredient in many dishes, such as the BLT sandwich, Caesar salad, and carbonara pasta. It can also be used as a wrapping for other meats, such as chicken or beef.
Bacon is popular in the United States and Canada, where it is used as breakfast meat (usually fried or grilled), in burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and as a topping on pizza. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, Bacon is commonly eaten as part of a traditional fry-up.
Bacon is also consumed in other European countries, such as Germany, Austria, Hungary, and the Netherlands.
The taste of Bacon varies depending on how it is prepared. It can be sweet, salty, smoky, or savory. Bacon that has been cooked until the crisp is known as crispy Bacon, while Bacon that has been cooked until soft is known as chewy Bacon.
3. Pork belly -best pancetta substitute
For A quick replacement for pancetta, try pork belly. Pork belly is a type of fatty pork that is popular in many cuisines. It is often used for braising or roasting. The meat is very tender and has a lot of flavors.
Pork belly is also famous in Asian cuisines, where it is often used in stir-fries or soups. Different types of pork belly can be found in different cuisines.
Pork belly is an excellent substitute for pancetta in this dish. It has a similar flavor and texture, and it cooks up nicely. If you can’t find pork belly, you can also use Bacon or ham. Just make sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy.
4. Guanciale- Suitable Replacement for Pancetta
If you’re looking for a delicious way to change up your usual pancetta recipe, why not try substituting guanciale? Guanciale is a type of Italian bacon made from pork jowls or cheeks, and it has a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta dishes.
Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for making this simple swap!
Guanciale is a type of cured pork that is popular in Italian cuisine. The word guanciale is derived from the Italian word for “cheek,” which is where this type of meat comes from.
Guanciale is made by curing the pork cheek with salt, pepper, and other spices. The result is delicious, flavorful meat that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Guanciale has a unique flavor that is both salty and sweet. It is often used as a flavoring agent in pasta dishes and sauces. Guanciale can also be used as a pancetta substitute in recipes.
Guanciale is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. It is perfect for adding flavor to pasta sauces, stews, and soups. Guanciale can also be used as a topping on pizzas or salads. If you’re searching for a delicious way to add flavor to your dishes, try using guanciale!
5. Capicola- Decent Alternative to Pancetta
You can substitute capicola for pancetta in most recipes. The two types of meat are very similar, with a similar taste and texture.
Although capicola is a little bit sweeter than pancetta, so you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly. If you’re looking for a more authentic Italian flavor, however, stick with pancetta.
Capicola is a type of cured meat made from pork shoulder or neck. It is popular in Italian, Spanish, and Greek cuisines and can be used in a variety of dishes.
The taste of capicola is salty and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice. The meat is typically thinly sliced and served as sandwich meat or as an ingredient in salads, pasta dishes, and pizzas. Capicola is also sometimes referred to as “coppa” or “capocollo.”
6. Pancetta substitute- HAM
Another excellent replacement for pancetta is ham; you can use any type of ham that you like. Just make sure that it is thinly sliced to cook evenly.
Ham is a type of meat that is typically cured and then smoked. It is made from the hind leg of a pig and has a salty, slightly sweet flavor.
Ham is popular in many dishes, such as ham cheese sandwiches, pasta dishes, and omelets. It can also be used as a flavoring for ham bean soups and stews. Ham is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different cuisines.
Ham can also be used in Italian cuisines, such as in Like Italian pasta dishes or pizzas. In Spanish cuisine, ham is often used in dishes such as paella and tortilla de patatas.
When storing ham, it is important to keep it refrigerated. Ham will last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. If you are freezing ham, it will last for up to six months. When reheating ham, be sure to heat it until it is steaming hot.
Discard any ham that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
7. Canadian Bacon
Substitute Canadian bacon for pancetta is a great idea; you can do so in most recipes. Remember that Canadian Bacon is usually quite a bit sweeter than pancetta, so you may want to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
Additionally, Canadian Bacon is typically much leaner than pancetta, so it may not render as much fat during cooking.
Canadian Bacon can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. It is a popular ingredient in omelets, frittatas, and quiches. It can also be used as a pizza topping, in pasta dishes, or as part of a sandwich. Canadian Bacon is also a common ingredient in Chinese stir-fries.
8. Try AMERICAN BACON instead of Pancetta
You can substitute American Bacon for pancetta in many recipes. Just make sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy before adding it to your dish.
There are many different ways to enjoy Bacon. It can be cooked in a variety of ways and used as an ingredient in many other dishes. Here are some of the most popular ways to enjoy American Bacon:
- Bacon Wrapped Shrimp – This dish is a delicious way to enjoy Bacon and shrimp together. The shrimp is wrapped in bacon and then grilled or baked.
- Bacon Cheeseburger – A classic American bacon cheeseburger is a delicious way to enjoy Bacon. The Bacon is cooked and then used as a topping on a cheeseburger.
- BLT Sandwich – A BLT sandwich is another classic American dish that uses Bacon. The Bacon is cooked and then used as a topping on a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and bread.
- Bacon-Wrapped Chicken – This dish is a delicious way to enjoy chicken wrapped in Bacon. The chicken is wrapped in Bacon and then grilled or baked.
- Bacon-Wrapped Steak – This dish is a delicious way to enjoy steak wrapped in Bacon. The steak is wrapped in bacon and then grilled or baked.
- Bacon-Wrapped Dates – This dish is a delicious way to enjoy dates wrapped in Bacon. The dates are wrapped in Bacon and then grilled or baked.
Read More- Best Bacon press alternatives
9. Substituting SALAMI for Pancetta
If you’re looking for a delicious way to change up your usual pancetta-topped pizza, try substituting salami! Salami is a perfect partner for any number of toppings, and it’ll give your pizza an extra zing that you’re sure to love.
Plus, it’s a simple way to add some extra protein to your meal. So next time you’re in the mood for pizza. It is also often used as a filling for pies and pastries.
Salami is a dry, cured sausage that is typically made from pork. It is very popular in many different cuisines and is often used as sandwich meat or as a topping on pizzas and other dishes.
The taste of salami can vary depending on the type of meat used and the spices that are added to it, but it is generally a very flavorful and savory sausage.
Other Pancetta Alternatives
10. Smoked sausage
An easy way to change up your breakfast routine, try substituting smoked sausage for pancetta in this recipe. This simple swap will give your dish a new flavor that you’re sure to love. And, since it’s already cooked, there’s no need to worry about overcooking the eggs. So, go forward and give it a try!
11. Salted pork
Do you want to swap up pancetta in your weekly pasta routine? Why not substitute pancetta for salted pork? Salted pork is just as flavorful and pairs well with all of your favorite pasta sauces.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add some extra protein to your diet. So why not give it a try? You might just find that you’re a new fan of salted pork!
Salted pork is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a flavoring agent, added to stews and soups, or used as a filling for ravioli or dumplings. Salted pork can also make Bacon, ham, and other cured meats.
12. Smoked ventrèche
Substituting smoked ventrèche for pancetta is a great way to add flavor to your dish. Ventrèche is a type of cured pork that is similar to Bacon, but it has a more intense flavor.
Smoked ventrèche can be used as a flavoring for many different dishes. It can be added to soups and stews to give them a smokey flavor, or it can be used as a seasoning for meats and vegetables.
It can also be used to make a spread or dip for bread and crackers. Smoked ventrèche is also a popular ingredient in many sausage and salami recipes.
Just be sure to cook it until it is crisp. Ventrèche is usually sliced thin, so you may need to cut the Bacon into small pieces before cooking it. It can be found at most specialty food stores. If you can’t find it, you can use regular Bacon.
13. Pork Tocino
Pork tocino is a popular Filipino dish made with cured pork. It is typically served as breakfast but can also be enjoyed as an afternoon or evening snack. There are many different ways to enjoy pork tocino, and it can be used in a variety of dishes.
Pork tocino is often served with eggs and is a popular breakfast dish in the Philippines. It can also be enjoyed as an afternoon or evening snack. Pork tocino is also often used in Filipino dishes such as adobo and Menudo.
Pork tocino is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. Here are some different ways to enjoy pork tocino:
-Serve it with eggs for breakfast
-Enjoy it as an afternoon or evening snack
-Use it in Filipino dishes such as adobo and Menudo
-Add it to your favorite pasta dish
-Use it as a topping for pizza
-Make pork tocino tacos
-Enjoy it in a sandwich
Pork tocino is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. Give some of these ideas a try and enjoy the flavor of pork tocino in all kinds of new and exciting ways!
If you want to use pork tocino instead of pancetta, simply substitute it in equal amounts. Pork tocino is a Filipino dish made with cured pork and is often used as a breakfast meat. It can be found in most Asian markets.
What is a good non-pork substitute for pancetta?
14. SMOKED TURKEY
-You can substitute smoked turkey for pancetta in this recipe. Simply cook the turkey in the same manner as the pancetta and add it to the dish at the end. This will give you a delicious, smoky flavor that will complement the other ingredients perfectly.
Smoked turkey is a popular type of poultry that is often used in various cuisines. The meat is smoked over an open flame, which gives it a distinct flavor that many people enjoy. Turkey is a popular choice for smoking because it is relatively lean meat, so it does not produce a lot of fat when smoked.
Additionally, turkey has a fairly neutral flavor, so it can be easily paired with other ingredients to create a variety of different dishes.
There are many different ways to enjoy smoked turkey. It can be eaten on its own as a main course, or it can be used as an ingredient in various recipes.
Turkey is often used in sandwiches, salads, and soups. It can also be shredded and used as a filling for tacos or burritos. Additionally, smoked turkey can be sliced and served as an appetizer or main course.
15. TURKEY BACON
If you want a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon for the pancetta. It will still give you that salty, smoky flavor without all the fat.
Turkey bacon is a type of Bacon made from turkey meat. It is usually lower in fat and calories than traditional pork bacon. Turkey bacon can be used in any dish that calls for Bacon, such as salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, and quiches.
It can also be eaten as a stand-alone food, such as in sandwiches or as a breakfast food.
Turkey bacon is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to pork bacon. It has a similar taste and texture but is lower in fat and calories. Many people find that turkey bacon is just as delicious as pork bacon, if not more so. Turkey bacon is made from the breast meat of turkeys.
Vegan substitute for pancetta
16. Full-flavored olives- healthy pancetta substitute
Full-flavored olive is an appropriate alternative for the pancetta; you can do so without affecting the taste of the dish too much. The olives will add a little bit of salty flavor to the dish, but it will still be delicious. Just be sure to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.
17. Vegetarian Bacon
In this recipe, we will be substituting vegetarian Bacon for pancetta. This substitution will work well in any dish that calls for pancetta and will add a delicious smoky flavor to your meal.
Vegetarian Bacon is readily available at most supermarkets and can be found in the “vegetarian” or “health food” section.
When substituting vegetarian Bacon for pancetta, it is important to cook the bacon until it is crisp. This will ensure that the flavor and texture of the dish are not altered.
Vegetarian Bacon can be cooked in a number of ways, but we recommend pan-frying or baking as these methods will yield the best results.
18. TEMPEH
Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that originated in Indonesia. It is made by culturing soybeans with a mold called Rhizopus oligosporus.
Tempeh can be used as a substitute for pancetta in many dishes. It has a similar flavor and can be used in the same way as pancetta, such as being diced and added to pasta dishes or used as a topping on pizzas.
Tempeh is also a good source of protein and fiber. When substituting tempeh for pancetta, be sure to cook it until it is crisp.
19. VEGAN SALAMI
If you want a delicious and easy vegan salami recipe, simply substitute pancetta for the meat. This dish is just as flavorful and satisfying but without animal products.
20. Porcini MUSHROOMS- veggie pancetta substitute
If you want a vegetarian version of this dish, substitute porcini mushrooms for pancetta. You can find porcini mushrooms in most grocery stores, either fresh or dried. If using dried mushrooms, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before using.
Vegetarian substitute for pancetta in carbonara
If you’re looking for a vegetarian substitute for pancetta in carbonara, consider using mushrooms. Sautéed mushrooms add a similar depth of flavor and can help to thicken the sauce.
You could also use diced tempeh or crumbled tofu as a meatless alternative. Another option is to simply leave out the pancetta and focus on the other delicious ingredients in the dish.
What is Pancetta?
Pancetta is a type of Italian Bacon that is made from pork belly meat. It is dry-cured and often spiced with black pepper, fennel, or other herbs, then rolled and tied into a log shape. It has a salty, smoky flavor and can be used in various dishes.
Pancetta can be thinly sliced and used as a topping on salads or pizzas, or it can be diced and cooked in sauces or used as a flavoring ingredient in many Italian dishes. Pancetta is a key ingredient in the classic Italian pasta dish carbonara.
Pancetta can also be used as a wrapping for meats or vegetables. In French cuisine, pancetta is often used in dishes such as quiche or tartiflette. Pancetta can be purchased pre-sliced or whole. The whole pancetta should be sliced thin before use. Pancetta can be kept in the refrigerator for up to six months.
FAQs Related to Pancetta & Its Alternatives
Q1. Is pancetta a ham or Bacon?
Pancetta is an Italian cured meat made from pork belly. It is similar to Bacon, but it is not smoked. Pancetta can be eaten raw, cooked, or used as a flavoring ingredient in other dishes.
Ham, on the other hand, is a cured and smoked meat made from pork legs or thighs.
Ham is more common in the United States, while pancetta is more common in Italy. Both ham and pancetta are high in fat and salt, so they should be eaten in moderation.
Q2. What is the difference between pancetta and Bacon?
Pancetta and Bacon are both cured meats, but they differ in a few key ways. Bacon is made from pork belly, while pancetta is made from pork loin.
Both types of meat are cured with salt and spices, but pancetta also includes garlic in the curing process. Bacon is typically smoked, while pancetta is not. This gives the Bacon a more pronounced smoky flavor. Finally, pancetta is sold in rolled slices, while Bacon is usually sold in strips.
Q3. Is pancetta similar to ham?
NO, pancetta is a cured meat product similar to Bacon. It is made from pork belly that is salt-cured and spiced with black pepper. Pancetta has a slightly sweeter taste than ham and is often used as a flavoring ingredient in recipes.
Q4. Are pancetta and prosciutto the same?
Pancetta and prosciutto are two types of cured Italian meats that are often confused with each other.
Although both pancetta and prosciutto come from the stomach or belly area of a pig, they are prepared in different ways. Pancetta is salt-cured and typically rolled into a cylinder shape, while prosciutto is dry-cured and often served in thin slices.
Pancetta has a slightly sweeter flavor than prosciutto and is often used as an ingredient in recipes, while prosciutto is typically eaten as is.
Q5. What is the difference between smoked Bacon and pancetta?
Smoked Bacon is made from pork that has been cured and then smoked, while pancetta is made from pork that has been cured (usually with salt, pepper, and other spices) but not smoked.
This gives pancetta a more intense flavor than smoked Bacon. Pancetta is also much leaner than Bacon, so it may be a healthier option for some people.
Q6. Can you use prosciutto instead of pancetta for carbonara?
Pancetta and prosciutto are both Italian cured meats, and they’re both delicious in carbonara. But if you can’t find pancetta, don’t worry – prosciutto will work just as well. Just make sure to chop it up into small pieces so that it cooks evenly with the pasta.
Q7. Why is pancetta so expensive?
Pancetta is a cured meat product similar to Bacon, made from the belly of a pig. It is often used as a seasoning or flavoring agent in dishes. Because it is not widely available in the United States, pancetta can be quite expensive. In Italy, where it originates, pancetta is more affordable because it is produced on a larger scale.
Several factors contribute to the high cost of pancetta in the United States. One is the limited supply. Because pancetta is not as widely available in the U.S., there is less competition among producers, which can drive up prices. Additionally, the process of making pancetta is quite labor-intensive, which also adds to the cost.
If you’re searching for a cheaper alternative to pancetta, Bacon is a good option. While it doesn’t have the same flavor as pancetta, it can still be used in many of the same dishes.
Q8. Can pancetta substitute for guanciale?
Pancetta and guanciale are both types of cured pork, so they can be used interchangeably in many recipes. Pancetta is typically saltier and less fatty than guanciale, so you may want to adjust the amount of salt in your recipe if using pancetta.
Guanciale also has a more intense flavor, so use it sparingly if you’re not a fan of strongly flavored meats.