Iberian ham lovers no longer need to break the bank to enjoy quality jamón this holiday season. The Spanish consumer organisation OCU has identified a supermarket brand ham that stands among the best and costs less than €5.
Iberian ham, or Jamón Ibérico, is an iconic product of Spanish gastronomy, known for its versatility. Whether enjoyed on toast, in sandwiches or as part of festive dishes, it remains a popular choice across Spain and beyond.
A Spanish culinary tradition
Jamón is deeply rooted in Spanish culture, with centuries of tradition behind its production. The two main types of Spanish ham are Jamón Serrano and Jamón Ibérico. Jamón Serrano comes from white pigs and is cured for up to 18 months, giving it a distinct flavour. In contrast, Jamón Ibérico is produced from Iberian pigs, often referred to as “pata negra” due to their black hooves.
Also read: The art and tradition of jamón in Spain
The Iberian pig’s unique genetic makeup allows for higher fat infiltration, resulting in the characteristic marbling that makes Jamón Ibérico prized. The curing process can last anywhere from 24 to 48 months, depending on the quality and type of ham. This lengthy curing period, combined with the pigs’ diet, contributes to the rich, complex flavour profile that Jamón Ibérico is known for.
There are four quality grades of Jamón Ibérico, determined by the pig’s diet and breed: Cebo, Cebo de Campo, Bellota, and Bellota 100%. Bellota hams come from free-range pigs that feed on acorns, which gives the meat its distinctive nutty flavour. This artisanal process and attention to detail make Jamón Ibérico one of the most sought-after delicacies in Spain.
Auchan’s jamón Ibérico tops the list
A quality Iberian ham is often seen as a luxury, but it doesn’t have to be. OCU’s latest study awarded one of the highest ratings to a supermarket Iberian ham, scoring 84 out of 100 for both taste and quality. The winning product? Auchan’s Jamón Ibérico, available at Alcampo, comes at a reasonable €4.23 per 100 grams.
After comparing more than 30 brands, Auchan’s ham emerged as one of the best. Factors considered in the assessment included the ingredients, quality of fat, use of preservatives, and moisture levels. Lidl’s Realvalle Jamón Ibérico also performed well in the study, priced at €4.69 per 100 grams. Another recommended option was the Delicious brand, available at Día for €5.15 per 100 grams. These are excellent choices for those wanting high-quality Iberian ham without overspending.
Understanding the labels: Serrano vs. Iberian ham
Manolo Valle, head of charcuterie at Madrid’s Los Museos del Jamón, recently spoke to 20minutos about differentiating between types of Spanish ham. He explained that the label colours indicate both the breed of the animal and its diet.
“White labels indicate Iberian cebo ham,” Valle said. “Green labels represent cebo ham from the countryside, still Iberian. Red and black labels identify acorn-fed Iberian hams: red for 50-75% Iberian breed, and black for 100% acorn-fed hams.”
Other key features include the hoof, texture of the leg, and fat content. High-quality ham should have a noticeable fat marbling, contributing to its distinct flavour and texture.