Bellota ham

Discover Bellota ham and its distinctive flavours

Bellota Iberian ham is one of the most prestigious products in Spanish gastronomy. It comes from Iberian pigs reared in the open air in the dehesas, where they benefit from the montanera, a period during which they feed mainly on acorns, but also on grasses, roots and other natural resources. This diet, combined with the Iberian breed’s genetics and a long, natural curing process, gives Bellota ham its melt-in-the-mouth texture, delicately marbled fat and remarkable aromatic richness. Its complex flavours, notes of dried fruit and long finish make it an exceptional ham, particularly prized by connoisseurs of fine cured meats.

50% or 100% Iberian Bellota ham: which to choose?

The difference between a 50% Iberian Bellota ham and a 100% Iberian Bellota ham lies mainly in the purity of the pig breed. The 100% Iberian Bellota, also known as Pata Negra ham, represents the highest level in the official classification of Iberian ham and is distinguished by its finesse, melt-in-the-mouth texture and great aromatic complexity. The 50% Iberian Bellota ham, produced by crossing an Iberian pig with a Duroc pig, is also reared in the open air and fed on acorns during the montanera. It offers excellent flavour, generally at a more affordable price. The choice therefore depends on your preferences, your budget and the type of tasting experience you are looking for, as both categories allow you to discover the characteristic flavours of genuine Bellota Iberian ham.

Whole ham, boneless or pre-sliced: which format should you choose?

A whole Bellota ham on the bone is ideal for those who enjoy traditional knife-cutting and for those who wish to savour the different parts of the ham gradually. It requires a ham stand and a suitable knife. Boneless Bellota ham offers a more practical solution for storage and carving, particularly using a slicer, whilst retaining the distinctive flavour characteristics of its category. Finally, pre-sliced Bellota ham is particularly well-suited to occasional tastings, gourmet gifts or for discovering different qualities of ham. Ready to serve, it allows you to easily enjoy the desired quantity. To fully appreciate its flavours and texture, it is recommended that you enjoy it at room temperature.

What weight of Bellota ham should you choose to suit your needs?

The ideal weight of a Bellota ham depends on the number of guests, how often it will be eaten and the presentation chosen. For an aperitif served with other foods, generally allow 40 to 60 g of ham per person, or 80 to 100 g for a more generous tasting. Packs of pre-sliced Bellota ham are ideal for small tastings, whilst boneless portions are suitable for regular family consumption. For enthusiasts who prefer to carve their ham by hand, a whole leg weighing 7 to 9 kg may be suitable for extended consumption or a large reception. However, you must take into account the bone and non-edible parts: the yield from a whole ham on the bone is lower than that of a boneless ham. You should therefore choose the weight based on your consumption habits and storage capacity.