TasteAtlas, the food and travel guide known for ranking traditional dishes and regional specialties from around the world, has released a new list that few people would have predicted. In its latest ranking of the world’s best salamis, Hungary came out on top.
TasteAtlas regularly publishes rankings based on user ratings, highlighting some of the world’s most famous foods and ingredients. These lists offer a snapshot of how consumers around the globe view traditional specialties from different countries.
Two Hungarian classics top the list
The ranking features 36 different salamis from several countries, but two Hungarian products claimed the highest positions. The winner was Szegedi szalámi (Szeged salami), a product easily recognized by the distinctive white mold that develops on its surface during the long maturation process. Its history stretches back more than a century and is closely tied to the city of Szeged. According to experts, the proximity of the Tisza River and the area’s unique microclimate have helped shape the flavor profile that made the salami famous far beyond Hungary’s borders.
The runner-up, Budapesti téliszalámi (Budapest winter salami), is made from pork and pork fat before undergoing smoking and a lengthy curing process that gives it its characteristic flavor. Despite its name, it is not called “winter salami” because it is eaten during winter. Historically, it could only be produced during the colder months, when temperatures and humidity levels were ideal for proper maturation. The exact details of the recipe remain closely guarded by producers.
According to TasteAtlas users, these two Hungarian products currently rank above several renowned Italian and French specialties.
Although Hungary secured the top two positions, Italian salamis still dominate the list overall. Five of the ten highest-ranked products originate from Italy, reflecting the country’s centuries-old tradition of producing cured meat specialties.
According to TasteAtlas, the world’s ten best salamis are currently:
- Szegedi szalámi (Hungary)
- Budapesti téliszalámi (Hungary)
- Salam de Sibiu (Romania)
- Salame Napoli (Italy)
- Salame Felino (Italy)
- Salame Toscano (Italy)
- Salame di Varzi (Italy)
- Rosette de Lyon (France)
- Genoa Salami (Italy)
- Finocchiona (Italy)
Read also: This is the tastiest Hungarian food according to foreigners
Other Hungarian products also enjoy EU protection
Szegedi salami and Budapesti téliszalámi are not the only Hungarian food products protected by European Union geographical indications. Other well-known examples include Csabai sausage, Gyulai sausage, Makó onion, and the famous paprika products associated with Szeged and Kalocsa. These foods are closely linked to the traditions and production methods of their respective regions.
This time, however, it was Hungarian salamis that stole the spotlight, securing both first and second place in the ranking.
Read also: 5 iconic Hungarian dishes foreigners can’t get enough of: can you?
