The day in which it was customary for Bergamo families to slaughter the pig was 8 December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This ceremony marked the climax of the winter months: from children to the elderly, all the family were involved and followed the lead of the butcher, who gave everybody directions and added a touch of magic in the form of spices (a jealously guarded secret) and salt (which plays a part in the etymology of the name “salami”).Specific weather conditions, humidity, ventilation and traditional production techniques, coupled with the skills and expertise of Bergamo butchers, make this product impossible to imitate outside this territory. It’s absolutely irresistible!Firm, mellow and soft at the same time, fragrant and juicy: Salame della Bergamasca has all of these qualities, and many more. Like that melt-in-your-mouth texture, the scent of red pepper and garlic, and a delicate flavour of fresh meat. This salami is skillfully spiced with pepper, nutmeg, cloves, mace, cinnamon, coriander and other “secret” ingredients contained in recipe books dating back to the 16th century, from which the Bergamo butchers, the true directors behind the finished product, still learn the tricks of the trade.In the Bergamo area, salami has always been the chief product deriving from the slaughtering of a pig. The pieces of meat are chosen by the butcher, who skillfully minces the lean parts (leg, shoulder, neck) and mixes them with the fat parts (chinstrap or belly, about 20%). He then cuts the lard with a knife, so as not to heat it with his hands. Finally, he takes his spices – salt, garlic soaked in red wine, pepper – and he kneads everything on the table. He stuffs the ensemble into the casing and goes on to tie it up. The salami is then seasoned in a cellar or in any room with controlled temperature and humidity.The end result is a perfect balance of flavors and aromas. The slices remain nice and firm, and the skin can be easily peeled off. A real treat for your taste buds!The Bergamo Butcher Association (Associazione norcini bergamaschi) runs courses that attract students from all over the world.Associazione Norcini Bergamaschi, via Dante Alighieri, 27. Calcinate (BG). Tel. 00393384645479