Demystifying Imported Ham: A Complete Guide to Understanding Foreign Ham Varieties

For most people, the word “ham” likely conjures up images of hearty American-style ham served during the holidays or layered between slices of bread to make a classic sandwich. However, there’s a vast world of imported ham to discover beyond the familiar hams found domestically within the United States.

Imported hams impart distinct flavors, textures, and aromas based on special curing techniques, breed of pig, and regional practices tied to various countries. If you’re looking to add more depth and intrigue to your recipes, learning about imported ham varieties is an exciting endeavor.

In this complete guide, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about imported ham, including:

• What is imported ham?
• Popular kinds of imported ham
• Taste profiles and uses
• Where to buy authentic imported ham
• Serving suggestions and recipe ideas

Let’s get started on a tasty trip around the world to highlight amazing imported hams!

What is Imported Ham?

Before diving deeper, we should begin with a quick refresher on what constitutes “ham.” Most ham comes from the hind leg of a hog that undergoes a process of curing smoking and/or aging. The curing method helps preserve the meat, extend its shelf life, and impart flavor.

Imported ham specifically refers to ham that originates from a different country than the one where it’s purchased. For instance if you live in the U.S. and buy ham produced in Spain, that would qualify as imported ham.

Here are some defining traits of imported ham:

• Derived from breeds of pigs found outside the U.S., like Iberico pigs in Spain.

• Subjected to traditional curing, smoking, and aging techniques tied to the country of origin. This affects the flavor profile.

• Produced under standards and regulations of the originating country, which vary by nation.

• Transported from far distances across the ocean after production.

• Yields unique sensory characteristics you won’t find in domestic American ham.

Now let’s highlight some of the most prized imported hams across the globe!

7 Notable Kinds of Imported Ham

There are over a dozen kinds of imported ham to taste your way through, but these 7 are among the most famous and beloved worldwide:

1. Jamón Ibérico (Spain)

Hailing from Spain, Jamón Ibérico is often regarded as the finest ham in the world. The Ibérico pig this ham comes from is fed a diet of wild acorns, which gives the meat its signature nutty, sweet, and intensely flavored taste. It’s dry-cured for upwards of 3 years for the most premium versions, which allows for exceptional aromas. Jamón Ibérico works wonderfully in Spanish-style tapas or as part of a charcuterie assortment.

2. Prosciutto di Parma (Italy)

Italy’s Prosciutto di Parma is a dry-cured ham that melts in your mouth with its soft, silky texture. It’s made from pigs that enjoy open pastures and fresh air in the Parma region. The mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with fruit, cheese, and Italian antipasti plates. Try it thinly sliced over fresh melon or figs.

3. Jamon Serrano (Spain)

Produced throughout Spain, Jamon Serrano translates to “ham from the mountains.” It’s salt-cured for up to 18 months, giving it bold,savory notes that sing when added to tapas, stews, or sandwiches. Jamon Serrano differs from Ibérico because it comes from white pigs rather than Ibérico heritage pigs.

4. Bayonne Ham (France)

Named after the French city of Bayonne, this smoked ham boasts a dense, velvety texture. French black pigs used for Bayonne ham are fed on acorns like their Ibérico cousins, granting lovely nutty flavors. The meat cures in salt and red wine too! Enjoy Bayonne ham shaved over salads or in a classic French croque monsieur sandwich.

5. York Ham (England)

One of England’s claims to ham fame, York ham hails from the northern Yorkshire region. It’s dry-cured and boasts a hearty, full flavor with a hint of sweetness. York ham works well in British-style English breakfasts or atop flaky scones. Tea sandwiches are another traditional use.

6. Schwarzwälder Schinken (Germany)

Germany brings us Schwarzwälder Schinken or Black Forest ham, named after the Black Forest region. It’s rigidly produced following a 15-step process. The dry-curing employs spices like garlic and juniper berries, giving it robust, earthy notes. Enjoy Schwarzwälder Schinken on hearty rye bread or paired with German lagers.

7. Jamón Serrano Reserva (Spain)

We’ll end where we began, back in Spain. Jamón Serrano Reserva refers to Serrano ham that ages for incredible lengths, like up to 5 years! It develops deeply concentrated, complex flavors with wisps of sweetness that linger. This Reserva ham is perfect for a special tapas feast and also makes a memorable tasting experience served solo.

Those are just a handful of the incredible imported hams you can sample, many carrying prestigious protected statuses and centuries of tradition. Now let’s look at how to buy and serve imported ham!

Buying Authentic Imported Ham

When you’re ready to purchase imported ham and bring those delectable flavors home, here are a few tips for finding the real deal:

• Check for protected designations – Look for marks like “PDO” or “PGI” that denote Protected Designation of Origin or Protected Geographical Indication. These certify authenticity.

• Examine the label – Legitimate imported ham will clearly state the country of origin, brand name, curing duration, and pig breed.

• Know trusted brands – Do research to find reputable imported ham brands known for adhering to traditional practices from each country.

• Ask your local deli – Talk to the professionals at high-end delis or specialty food stores for imported ham recommendations you can taste.

• Order directly from the source – Some renowned producers, like Joselito from Spain, allow online ordering directly from their website.

Although authentic imported ham often carries a higher price tag, tasting the exquisite flavors will convince you it’s worth the investment!

Serving and Cooking with Imported Ham

Once you’ve got your hands on some tasty imported ham, it’s time for the best part—enjoying it! Here are some tips:

• Imported ham tastes fantastic when served thinly sliced at room temperature to appreciate the textures and aromas.

• Add paper-thin slices of imported ham to antipasti, charcuterie boards, and tapas platters for instant flavor.

• Pair imported ham with fresh fruits like melon, figs, grapes, and apples to balance the savoriness.

• Layer premium imported ham on crostini or pan con tomate for a quick appetizer.

• Combine diced imported ham with pasta, risotto, frittatas, and quiches for a boost of richness.

• Incorporate imported ham into sandwiches, wraps, panini, and crusty baguettes for European-inspired lunches.

• Explore making entrees like ham-stuffed chicken breast, baked imported ham with glazes, or ham-accented frittatas.

The possibilities are endless when cooking with the exceptional taste of imported ham!

Satisfy Your Hunger for Ham Diversity

We’ve just scratched the surface of the wide world of imported hams out there. From the renowned Jamón Ibérico of Spain to German Schwarzwälder Schinken and beyond, imported ham offers a chance to expand your palate and knowledge of globetrotting food traditions.

Seeking out authentic imported hams from trusted producers opens the door to a spectrum of flavors not found in everyday domestic ham. With so many varieties to savor straight from the source countries, it’s an exciting culinary adventure!

The next time you’re looking to add interest to a charcuterie platter or sandwich, try buying imported ham for a taste tour of Europe and beyond. Now that you know exactly what makes imported ham special, you can begin seeking out those sublime flavors and aromas that have captivated palates for generations. Your taste buds will thank you!