What is "pepperoni"?

Pepperoni is a type of cured sausage originating from Italy, but it is now widely popular in many cuisines, particularly in pizza toppings. It is typically made from a mixture of finely ground pork and beef, seasoned with spices such as paprika, chili peppers, garlic, fennel, and black pepper, giving it its distinctive spicy and savory flavor. Pepperoni is often cured, smoked, and then sliced thinly before being used as a topping on pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.