Austin, Texas, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and its cured meat offerings are no exception. From classic Italian salumi to innovative Texas twists, the city offers a diverse range of cured meats to tantalize any palate. This guide explores ten of the best cured meats you can find in Austin, highlighting their unique characteristics and where to find them. This guide focuses on cured meats, encompassing various processes like salting, smoking, and drying, to achieve preservation and flavor enhancement.
Exploring Austin's Cured Meat Landscape
Austin's love for cured meats stems from a rich culinary heritage blending Texan traditions with international influences. Many local businesses champion artisanal techniques, sourcing high-quality ingredients and emphasizing traditional methods to create truly exceptional products. The result is a selection of cured meats that appeals to both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers. This article dives into the top 10, highlighting the unique qualities that set them apart.
Top 10 Cured Meats to Try in Austin
This list isn't ranked in order of preference, as taste is subjective! Instead, we highlight the distinct characteristics and locations of these exceptional cured meats.
1. Bresaola at Odd Duck
Odd Duck, a renowned Austin restaurant, often features bresaola on its menu. This air-dried, cured beef from the Lombardy region of Italy boasts a deep, savory flavor and a characteristically lean texture. Odd Duck's version often incorporates interesting pairings and presentations, showcasing the versatility of this classic Italian cured meat. Note: Menu items change frequently, so calling ahead to confirm availability is always recommended.
2. Sopressata at Antonelli's Cheese Shop
Antonelli's is a staple in the Austin food scene, known for its carefully curated selection of cheeses and charcuterie. Their soprasatta, an Italian dry-cured salami, is frequently a standout. The intensely flavorful salami is typically made with pork and often seasoned with chili peppers or other spices, providing a delightful spicy kick.
3. Texas-Style Smoked Sausage at Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
While not strictly a "cured" meat in the European tradition, Valentina's smoked sausage deserves a spot on this list. This is a distinctly Texan interpretation, using local spices and smoking techniques to create a juicy, smoky sausage with a bold flavor profile. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to sample a local favorite.
4. Lox at Salt & Time
Salt & Time, a butcher shop and restaurant, excels in crafting cured meats. Their lox, a brined and cured salmon, is often prepared with a delicate touch, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, subtle flavor that complements various accompaniments.
5. Prosciutto at Central Market
Central Market, a high-end grocery store, offers a wide array of imported and domestic cured meats. Their prosciutto selection often includes top-quality options from Italy, showcasing the classic delicate flavor and buttery texture of this well-known ham. They usually carry various types, from San Daniele to Parma, each with its own distinct characteristics.
6. Capicola at Contigo
Contigo, known for its upscale Texan cuisine, frequently offers capicola as part of its charcuterie selection. This Italian dry-cured ham, typically made from pork, is known for its firm texture and robust, slightly sweet flavor. Contigo’s version often reflects a high level of craftsmanship.
7. Chorizo at La Barbecue
La Barbecue, a popular Austin BBQ joint, is famous for its smoked meats. However, their chorizo deserves mention. While a smoked product, the curing process involved in preparing this spicy sausage gives it a distinct flavor and texture.
8. Guanciale at Uchi
Uchi, an acclaimed sushi restaurant, may surprise some with its cured meat offerings. Their guanciale, cured pork jowl, is often used to enhance certain dishes, providing a rich, salty, and deeply savory element. Uchi’s sophisticated approach elevates this often-overlooked cured meat.
9. Salami variations at East Side King
East Side King, known for its inventive and delicious Thai-inspired dishes, sometimes adds interesting salami variations to its menu. Their specific offerings change, but their culinary innovation often results in unique and flavourful cured meats.
10. Pâté at Justine's Brasserie
Justine's Brasserie, a French-inspired restaurant, frequently offers various pâtés, a type of terrine made with ground meats, spices, and other ingredients. This classic French cured meat is a testament to careful preparation and reflects French culinary tradition.
Beyond the List: Exploring Austin's Cured Meat Scene
This list represents a starting point for exploring Austin's diverse cured meat scene. Numerous other establishments and shops offer unique and delicious options. Don't hesitate to venture out and discover your own favorites! Remember to check menus and availability before visiting, as offerings can change seasonally. Enjoy your culinary exploration of Austin’s cured meats!
