Best Mortadella Brands
Let’s talk about one of the tastiest cured meats out there — mortadella. This classic Italian sausage is a favorite of mine, and I can’t wait to share with you the best brands to try.
Mortadella is a unique and delicious cold cut that originated in the city of Bologna, Italy.
It’s made with finely ground pork, infused with spices like black pepper, and studded with cubes of pork fat (don’t worry, they’re delicious!).
The result is a smooth, flavorful sausage with a distinctive appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Italian Mortadella with Pistachio- Negroni
This big 8-pound mortadella from Negroni is a real treat. It’s made in Italy with high-quality pork and pistachios mixed right into the meat.
The mortadella has a rich, savory pork flavor that’s not too salty or spicy. The pistachios add a nice crunch and slightly sweet, nutty taste that complements the meat perfectly. The texture is tender and moist without being mushy or dry.
I really enjoy having this mortadella thinly sliced on a sandwich or serving it in cubes as part of a charcuterie board. It’s so flavorful that you don’t need to add much else to make a tasty meal or snack.
Pros:
- Full, delicious pork flavor
- Crunchy pistachios add texture and nuttiness
- No weird aftertaste or artificial ingredients
- Perfectly moist and tender texture
- Convenient for sandwiches or appetizer platters
- Made in Italy with quality ingredients
Cons:
- Very large 8-pound size may be too much for some
- More expensive than regular mortadella
- Can’t be returned once opened for food safety
Overall, this is an outstanding mortadella that’s worth the price if you appreciate premium Italian deli meat. The flavors and quality ingredients make it stand out.
Shop Now At:
Fortuna’s Mortadella Piccolo with Italian Pistachios
Mortadella is an Italian pork sausage that has a delicious, unique flavor. The Fortuna’s Mortadella Piccolo with Italian Pistachios is a tasty version of this classic deli meat.
This mortadella is made with all-natural pork and real Italian pistachios. It has an authentic Italian taste that makes my mouth water just thinking about it. The pistachios give it a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
One thing I really like about this mortadella is that it’s made in the USA by skilled meat artisans. They use time-honored techniques to achieve that true Italian taste and texture. You can feel good about eating this because there are no weird ingredients or preservatives.
The 1lb size is perfect for sandwiches or charcuterie boards. I love making big Italian deli-style sandwiches loaded with mortadella, salami, cheese, and fresh veggies. It’s also great just sliced up on a plate with cheese, olives, crackers, and other meats and spreads.
Pros:
- Authentic Italian flavor
- Contains real pistachios for crunch and nuttiness
- Made with all-natural pork
- No preservatives or artificial ingredients
- Perfect size for sandwiches or charcuterie
- Made by skilled artisans in the USA
Cons:
- More expensive than basic deli meats
- Only comes in a 1lb size option
Shop Now At:
ALEF SHORT STOLICHNAYA Mortadella
This is an authentic Russian-style mortadella from the brand Alef. It is made with high-quality cuts of meat and seasoned using traditional Russian techniques to give it a rich, smoky flavor.
When I tried this mortadella, the first thing I noticed was the amazing aroma. The smokiness hit my nose right away and made my mouth water. The slices had a beautiful deep red color with strips of white fat running through them.
Taking a bite, the texture was fantastic — firm but not too dense or chewy. The flavors were incredible! The smokiness came through strongly but was balanced by a savory richness. There were hints of spices like black pepper and garlic that added complexity.
This mortadella would be perfect for sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or just snacking on its own. The bold, rustic flavor makes it a delicious option for those looking for an authentic taste of Russia.
Pros:
- Authentic Russian flavor profile
- Rich, smoky taste
- High-quality meat
- Firm, satisfying texture
- Versatile for many dishes
Cons:
- May be too strongly flavored for some
- Price is on the higher end
Shop Now At:
Vantia Imported Mortadella with Pistachios
This mortadella is the real deal — imported straight from Italy! It’s made with 100% natural pork, so you know there aren’t any bad additives or preservatives. The pistachios give it a nice crunch and flavor.
The taste is amazing — rich and authentic, just like you’d get in an Italian deli. It’s slow roasted in traditional brick ovens which really brings out the flavors.
I love that this mortadella is healthy since it doesn’t have nitrates or other junk. You can feel good about eating it.
Pros:
- Genuine Italian flavor
- No artificial ingredients
- Crunchy pistachios
- Slow roasted for amazing taste
- 100% pork, no fillers
Cons:
- Pricey at $29.95 for 12 oz
- Needs to be eaten quicker since no preservatives
This is top quality mortadella that captures the spirit of Italy. If you want an authentic tasting experience, this is worth the splurge.
Shop Now At:
Alex Meat Alex Mortadella Chunks
I recently tried these mortadella chunks from Alex Meat, and I have to say, they are a true delight for the taste buds. As someone who has tasted all kinds of deli meats over the years, these chunks really stood out.
The first thing that caught my attention was the high-quality ingredients used. Alex Meat clearly takes pride in selecting the finest cuts of meat and blending them with a harmonious mix of spices. The result is a rich, savory flavor that is simply mouth-watering.
One of the things I love about these mortadella chunks is their versatility. They are perfect for adding to sandwiches, salads, or even charcuterie boards. The chunks elevate any dish they are added to, making them a fantastic addition to both casual meals and special gatherings.
Pros:
- Premium quality ingredients
- Rich, savory flavor
- Versatile for various culinary creations
- Artisan-crafted with attention to detail
- Convenient pre-cut chunks
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than some other mortadella options
- Non-returnable due to food safety reasons
What really sets these mortadella chunks apart is the care and craftsmanship that goes into making them. Every aspect, from the meat selection to the spice blending, is meticulously perfected by true artisans. You can taste the dedication in every bite.
Overall, if you’re looking for a premium mortadella experience that will elevate your culinary creations, I highly recommend giving Alex Meat Alex Mortadella Chunks a try. They are a true savory delight that caters to discerning palates.
Shop Now At:
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying mortadella, there are a few key things to look out for:
- Ingredients: The best mortadella brands use high-quality pork, simple seasonings, and minimal preservatives. Look for brands that prioritize natural ingredients and traditional recipes.
- Texture: Mortadella should have a smooth, almost velvety texture when you slice into it. It shouldn’t be too dry or too soft. The cubes of pork fat should be evenly distributed throughout the sausage.
- Flavor: Authentic mortadella has a delicate, savory flavor with hints of black pepper and spices. It shouldn’t be overly salty or overpowering.
- Origin: While mortadella is now produced all over the world, the best brands often come from Italy, particularly the Bologna region where it was first created. Look for mortadella with an Italian pedigree.
- Packaging: Choose mortadella that’s vacuum-sealed or packaged with minimal air exposure. This will help preserve its freshness and flavor.
FAQs
Is mortadella the same as bologna?
No, mortadella and bologna are different types of sausages. Mortadella is an Italian cured meat made with pork, while bologna is a smoked sausage that can be made with a variety of meats.
Can I eat mortadella cold or does it need to be cooked?
Mortadella is a cured, cooked sausage, so it can be eaten cold straight out of the package. However, some people enjoy warming it up or even grilling it for added flavor.
How long does mortadella last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, an unopened package of mortadella can last for several weeks. Once opened, it should be consumed within 5–7 days for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze mortadella?
Yes, you can freeze mortadella for longer-term storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic or vacuum-seal it to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
If you are a newcomer to this delicious Italian sausage, trying out the best brands is an absolute must. With its unique texture, savory flavor, and rich history, mortadella is a true culinary gem that deserves a place on your charcuterie board or sandwich.
Remember to look for brands that prioritize quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and careful packaging to ensure you’re getting the most authentic and delicious mortadella experience possible.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
