Authentic Italian Guanciale is a specialty deli meat from the Umbria and Lazio regions, characterized by its tenderness and very special flavor. Guanciale originates from the italian word guancia meaning cheek. Maestri Guanciale is made from first choice pork jowl, then salted, flavored and slow-cured for approximately 3 months. Guanciale is frequently used as an ingredient for Italian pasta dishes, like Carbonara and Amatriciana. It is a gourmet substitute to pancetta. Cut very thin it will just about melt over vegetables and casseroles for a unique mouth-watering taste.