Spanish Ham is one of the star products of Spanish gastronomy, and when we talk about the best ham in Spain, we enter a world of flavours, traditions and culinary secrets.
This article explores in depth what makes Spain’s best ham so special and how to identify it.
Discovering the best ham in Spain: a guide for gourmets
To embark on a quest for the best ham in Spain is to embark on a sensory and cultural journey through the regions that have perfected the art of ham curing over the centuries.
Each variety of Spanish ham offers a unique experience, influenced by the breed of pig, its diet, the climate of the region and the curing techniques employed.
Spain’s best ham comes in two main varieties: Serrano ham and Iberian ham. Knowledge and appreciation of these varieties is essential for any gourmet.
Jamon Serrano: a Spanish classic
Jamon Serrano, one of the best hams in Spain, comes from white pigs. It is characterised by its well-balanced flavour and firm texture. The curing of Serrano ham is a meticulous process that can vary between 12 and 18 months, depending on the piece.
The regions of Teruel and Trévelez are famous for their Serrano ham, offering products with Denomination of Origin that guarantee their quality and authenticity.
Iberian ham: an exclusive delicacy
On the other hand, Iberian ham is considered by many to be the best ham in Spain. It comes from the Iberian breed of pig, and its superior quality is largely due to the pigs’ diet, which often includes acorns.
This diet gives Iberian ham a rich and complex flavour, with a smoother texture than its Serrano counterpart. Varieties of Iberian ham include ‘de bellota’ (fed exclusively on acorns) and ‘de cebo’ (fed on a mixture of cereals and acorns), each offering a distinct taste experience.
Where is the best ham in Spain?
To discover where the best ham in Spain is to be found, it is necessary to immerse oneself in a tour of various regions that are distinguished by their excellence in ham production.
Each of these areas brings unique characteristics to its hams, due to factors such as climate, curing traditions and the feeding of the pigs.
Teruel: cradle of high quality Serrano ham
Teruel stands out as one of the emblematic places for the production of the best Serrano ham in Spain. This ham, protected by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), is renowned for its delicate texture and flavour, the product of a dry, cold climate that is ideal for natural curing.
In Teruel, the curing process is carried out following traditional methods, which guarantees a constant and superior quality.
Extremadura: Iberian ham paradise
When it comes to Iberian ham, Extremadura is a region that cannot be overlooked. This area is famous for its dehesas, unique landscapes where Iberian pigs are reared in the wild and feed mainly on acorns during the montanera, the last phase of their rearing.
This special diet is what gives Extremaduran Iberian ham its unique flavour and texture, making it one of the best hams in Spain.
Jabugo: symphony of flavour in every slice
Jabugo, in the province of Huelva, is another name synonymous with the best ham in Spain, especially when it comes to acorn-fed Iberian ham.
The combination of the region’s unique microclimate, together with ancestral traditions in curing ham, results in a product with an intense flavour and smooth texture, much appreciated by connoisseurs.
Guijuelo: tradition and renown
Guijuelo, in the province of Salamanca, is another hub in the production of Iberian ham. This place is known for its high quality ham, which benefits from the region’s cold and dry climate, ideal for slow and homogeneous curing. Guijuelo hams, with their delicate flavour and silky texture, are highly valued both in Spain and internationally.
Tips for choosing the best ham in Spain
Choosing the best ham in Spain is a task that requires attention to several details that guarantee its quality and flavour. Here we offer you a series of key tips that will help you select an exceptional ham, whether to enjoy at home or as a special gift.
1. Identify the type of ham
First, it is essential to distinguish between the main varieties: Serrano ham and Iberian ham. Serrano ham generally comes from white pigs, while Iberian ham is made from the Iberian breed of pig. This initial distinction will help you to focus your search according to your taste and texture preferences.
2. Origin and denomination of origin
Place of origin is crucial. Look for hams with Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) such as Jamon de Teruel or Guijuelo ham. These labels guarantee that the ham has been produced according to strict quality standards and traditional methods.
3. Curing time and method
A factor that significantly influences the quality of the ham is the curing time and method. Generally, a longer curing period results in a more developed flavour and a more refined texture. The best hams from Spain usually have curing periods ranging from 24 to 36 months or more.
4. Pig feeding
For Iberian ham, the pig’s diet is a crucial aspect. Acorn-fed Iberian ham, considered by many to be the best ham in Spain, comes from pigs that have been fed exclusively on acorns during the montanera. This special diet gives the ham a unique flavour and texture.
5. Appearance of the ham
Look at the colour and texture of the ham. A good ham should have a deep red colour and shiny, slightly yellowish fat. The fat should be well distributed throughout the meat, indicating proper curing and feeding.
6. Aroma and flavour
Aroma is a key indicator of ham quality. A good ham should have a pleasant aroma and not be too salty. If you have the opportunity to try some before you buy, look for a rich, nuanced flavour that lingers on the palate.
7. Expert advice
If possible, seek advice from specialist shops. Ham experts can give you detailed information about the origin, curing and characteristics of each ham. They will help you to make an informed choice.
In short, when looking for the best ham in Spain, it is essential to consider the type of ham as well as its origin, curing and nutrition. Both Serrano and Iberian ham have their merits. Renowned Regions such as Teruel and Extremadura produce some of the best ham in Spain.
Remember, the best ham in Spain is not just a food. It is a gastronomic experience that reflects the country’s rich culture and culinary tradition.
Best ham to buy in UK with Gastronomic Spain
After Brexit, buy Spanish ham in the UK has become a little more complicated. However, Your Spanish Supermarket in UK Gastronomic Spain continues to send Spanish hams to the UK with free delivery. When choosing the best ham that you can buy in Gastronomic Spain, bear in mind the requirements that we have mentioned before. What do you need it for? what is your budget? do you know how to buy ham with a knife? how many of you are going to eat it? once you have answered these questions, you will be able to choose the ham you are looking for. Iberico or Serrano, Whole or with a knife, etc.
