Description
The Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI is a raw, seasoned sausage product, made from 30-60% lean meat and 40-70% lard. It is made from various races whereas the Sobrasada de Mallorca de Cerdo Negro PGI is made only from indigenous swine from Mallorca.
Production Area
Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI is produced on the island of Majorca, in the Balearic Islands.
Production Method
In the initial preparation phase, the meat is chopped to a size of 6 mm or less. To this mix paprika, salt, spices are added to achieve a homogenous paste which is fed into the intestines. The final phase is the seasoning which is necessary to reach the optimum characteristics of the product. The use of artificial and natural colouring is forbidden.
Appearance and Flavour
Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI has an irregular, cylindrical shape, depending on the size and form of the intestine used. Externally it has a dark-red colour, it is slightly wrinkled but with no mould. The filling is marblered, soft, oily and slightly stringy. The taste and aroma are very characteristic and there is a strong presence of paprika.
History
The origins of Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI are very old and they can be traced to the period of the Roman domination. Over the centuries, the composition of this product has changed, starting with the end of the 16th century when paprika was added, modifying and strengthening the flavour. Many documents have been discovered, dating back to the 19th century which support the importance that this product has always had both in an economically and social sense for the island of Majorca.
Gastronomy
Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI should be kept in a dry, fresh, well-ventilated area. In the summer months it should be kept in the fridge, before consumption, it is recommended that the product be left at room temperature for at least an hour. Traditionally Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI is eaten, simply spread on bread. It is also used as a key ingredient in various meat, vegetable and fish dishes. It can be used for risotto with spinach and mushrooms, quail and honey, or with apples in the oven. It is also used for sauces or to flavour bread. It is usually eaten with full-bodied red wine.
Marketing
It is sold as Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI and Sobrasada de Mallorca de Cerdo Negro PGI. It is sold in single pieces, vacuum-sealed, atmospherecontrolled packaging and whole, sliced or finely sliced.
Distinctive Features
Sobrasada de Mallorca PGI is used in the preparation of various dishes, but differently from other sausage products, it is often eaten with sweet products such as apricot jam, honey or sugar.
