Pancetta is cured and salted belly of pork in other words ‘Italian Bacon’ with a distinct aromatic flavour.  Look out for small packs of pancetta cubes.  They can have a long life stored in the refrigerator and can be used in salads, pasta, omelettes, frittatas and rice dishes. 

 

Cook them in a heavy based frying pan, heat it until piping hot and add the pancetta.  Toss the cubes over the heat until crisp and golden brown.  Drain on paper towel before serving.  The fat left in the pan will have excellent flavour and can be put by for another time.