Buying a piece of acorn-fed Iberian ham is an excellent option to enjoy this exquisite product at its best. Here is a complete guide on how to select, preserve and enjoy a whole piece of ham.

Part Selection

Denomination of Origin: Look for hams with a protected designation of origin (DOP) such as DOP Dehesa de Extremadura

Quality Label: The black label or flange indicates the percentage of Iberian and feeding regime with acorn or natural feed.

Weight and Size: The pieces usually weigh between 7 and 9 kg. A larger ham may have a more developed flavor due to its longer curing time.

Visual Appearance: The hoof must be black, a sign of the Iberian breed, and the outer fat must have a yellowish tone.

Conservation of Ham Storage: Keep the ham in a cool, dry place, with a temperature between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. Avoid direct sunlight and places with sudden changes in temperature.

Placement on the Ham Holder: Use a ham holder to hold the piece. This makes cutting easier and helps keep the piece in good condition.

Surface Protection: Once started, cover the exposed part with a clean cloth and a little fat from the ham itself to prevent it from drying out.

Ham Cut

Tools Needed: Use a long, flexible ham knife, a short, stiff-bladed knife for cleaning, and a sharpening steel to keep it sharp.

Cutting Technique:

First Cut: Start with the mace (the juiciest part) if you are going to consume it quickly, or with the stifle (the least juicy part) if it is going to last longer.

Fine Cuts: Cut thin, small slices, always in the opposite direction to the hoof.

Rotating the Piece: When you get to the bone, turn the ham and start cutting from the other side.

Enjoy Ham

Serving Temperature: Serve the slices at room temperature to better appreciate their flavor and texture.

Accompaniments: You can accompany the ham with bread, tomato, olive oil, and wines such as Fino or Manzanilla.

Conservation of the Slices: If you do not consume all the slices at once, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and take them out a while before consuming so that they reach room temperature.

Benefits of Iberian Ham:

Unique and 100% Healthy Flavor. Rich in oleic acid, acorn-fed Iberian ham is beneficial for cardiovascular health.

Buying and enjoying a piece of Iberian ham is a gourmet experience that reflects the best of Spanish gastronomy. Enjoy every slice!