Acorn-Fed 100% Ibérico ham - Pata Negra

Acorn-Fed 100% Ibérico ham brings together history, tradition, excellence and Spain’s singular terroir in a product that is as unique as it is utterly bewitching.

Spain’s famous jamón (cured ham) is known all over the world, if only by its sterling reputation. For those who have been lucky enough to try it—either here in Spain or in one of the many international markets to which it is exported—it’s an experience not easily forgotten, nor would you ever want to.

Despite the generally high quality of Spanish jamón, not all versions are created equal. The true jewel in the crown is a gastronomic treasure of the rarest and most wonderful variety: acorn-fed 100% ibérico ham. 

Considered the highest quality Spanish ham there is, it is made from the pure-bred Ibérico pigs that are native to Spain (and a few small areas in Portugal). But the keys to understanding this singular product go beyond its origins, and must take into account the rearing of the pigs, the traditions and techniques that go into making the hams, the qualities and characteristics of the hams themselves, and the best ways to enjoy them.

Making an 100% jamón Ibérico from start to finish can take several years, from rearing the pigs to curing the ham in drying houses. Although the diet of the pigs is of supreme importance, other key factors that determine the characteristics of the final product include the dehesa landscapes, the surrounding climates and altitudes of the drying houses, and the traditional production methods that link each region’s products inexorably to their specific place of origin.

There are four Protected Designations of Origin for Ibérico ham. These are PDO Valle de los Pedroches in Córdoba (Andalusia), PDO Guijuelo in Salamanca (Castile-León), PDO Dehesa de Extremadura in Extremadura, and PDO Jabugo in Huelva (Andalusia).

​Source: Foods and Wines from Spain ICEX

Spanish Tapas: Bread with tomato and Ibérico ham, pan con tomate.

This Spanish tapa is one of the most famous ones: bread, EVOO, tomato and Ibérico ham. It sounds delicious and it is delicious. Have it as an appetizer, have it for lunch, or have it even for breakfast.
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