Pancetta is an Italian cured meat made from pork belly, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a variety of spices such as nutmeg, fennel, and garlic. Unlike bacon, which is often smoked, pancetta is typically cured and dried, giving it a rich, savory flavor with a delicate balance of saltiness and spice. It is usually rolled into a tight cylinder and sliced thin for use in recipes, though flat versions also exist. Pancetta adds depth and umami to dishes like pasta carbonara, soups, and sautés, and can be enjoyed cooked or raw depending on the preparation.