The Guanciale Amatriciano ( pork cheek) , indispensable for the famous Amatriciana pasta, is obtained from the throat of the pig, salted and seasoned with spices well before moving on to the drying stage. Removed from the salt, drained and tied with string, the Guanciale is left to be seasoned with pepper, a touch that enhances its flavor and gives it character without altering the taste. The aging process lasts a period of three months.