Dried sausages have been cured and dried under a controlled process using bacterial fermentation to create a distinctive flavour. They are wrapped in a casing and are generally hard and dry in texture and can be stored for a long period without refrigeration as long as they are sealed in their original package. Once opened, they should be refrigerated. Pepperoni, salami (pictured below) and chorizo are common dried sausages that are available. Dried sausages are ready to serve after slicing.