Prosciutto

In the past, meat had to be preserved so that it kept for a long time without the benefit of refrigeration. This need gave birth to a vast industry given over to the production of hams enjoyed as specialities in their own right rather than simply as preserved meat. Prosciutto, probably from the Latin perexutus meaning dried, is among the most renowned and is probably one of the best-loved foods from Italy worldwide. Prosciutto crudo is the essential ingredient in an Italian antipasto. It is eaten accompanied by either melon or figs and with grissini or good bread. It can also form part of a main course, served for example with buttered asparagus and boiled potatoes.