How to Dice and Cook Pancetta to use in Pasta Recipes

Pancetta is commonly referred to as Italian bacon. However, pancetta is not smoked like bacon. Pancetta is salt cured and adds flavor to many Italian dishes. It is easy to learn how to dice and cook pancetta, and add the flavorful bits to pasta dishes.

Dicing a Slab of Pancetta

1. Select a sharp knife such as a large chef's or butcher knife.


2. Remove the skin if necessary. Some pancetta has a skin on the outside. Remove this skin layer before cutting.


3. Cut the slab of Pancetta into slices. Make the slices thick or thin, depending on the recipe requirements or your preference.


4. Place the slices on top of each other and cut into strips.


5. Turn the slices of pancetta at an angle and dice to the size your recipe calls for.

Dicing Pre-Sliced Pancetta

1. Stack 3 slices of pre-sliced pancetta on top of each other.


2. Roll the slices into a tube.


3. Slice the roll into strips. The strips can be sliced thick or thin, depending on the recipe.


4. Separate the slices with your fingers. You will notice that the pancetta is shredded. Cut the shredded slices into smaller pieces to resemble diced pancetta.

Cooking the Pancetta

1. Heat a skillet.


2. Place the diced pancetta in the skillet.


3. Cook over medium-low heat until crisp, stirring often.


4. Pancetta cooks the same as bacon. Be sure to not over cook or burn. Cooking time for diced pancetta is 3 to 5 minutes. Shredded pancetta will cook in about 3 minutes.