Pork steaks are a traditional Italian gastronomic product, particularly originating in the Umbria and Lazio regions, but often consumed in other parts of Italy. It is a snack based on pork, usually pork, but sometimes also wild boar. The name “coppiette” comes from the Umbrian dialect word “coppa,” which means “piece” or “strip,” since the meat is cut into thin strips.
This is how pork patties are usually prepared:
Meat preparation: Pork is cut into thin strips, often using parts such as loin or other lean parts.
Seasoning: The meat strips are seasoned with a mixture of spices and herbs. Common ingredients include black pepper, chili pepper, garlic, salt and other spices depending on local traditional recipes. Chili pepper gives the couples their characteristic spicy flavour.
Drying: After being seasoned, the meat strips are left to air dry for an extended period of time, which can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the recipe and environmental conditions.
Smoking (optional): In some variations, the patties are smoked to add a smoky flavor to the meat.
The end result is a dry, cured and spiced meat with a rich flavor and a light spicy touch. Pork dumplings are often served as a snack or appetizer and are prized for their soft but slightly hard texture, which makes them pleasant to chew. They are a popular traditional Italian food item and are often accompanied by a glass of local red wine.