Tapas are appetizers in Spain; they range from simple olives and cheese to the dishes made up with Iberian ham, which it’s in itself also divided into several categories, depending on factors such as the type of pig from which the ham was produced, the food eaten by the pig, the part of the body that was used to produce the ham, etc.
Tapas are appetizers in Spain; they range from simple olives and cheese to the dishes made up with Iberian ham, which it’s in itself also divided into several categories, depending on factors such as the type of pig from which the ham was produced, the food eaten by the pig, the part of the body that was used to produce the ham, etc. According to all definitions, the Iberian ham is a type of cured ham produced mainly in Spain and Portugal from black Iberian pigs. We had to mention this, because Spain also has another type of ham to offer, and this is the Serrano ham, which is made from white pigs and also produce exquisite hams.
The first category of ham made from black pigs is the jamón Ibérico de bellota. This category refers to the most expensive and select type of ham that is produced in Spain. This ham comes from pigs that were exclusively fed with acorns and natural grass; "bellota" means "acorn". Another characteristic of this Iberian ham or jamón Ibérico de bellota, as known in Spain, is that it can be cured for up to 36 months, which will result in a particular and exquisite delicacy and flavor that will blow your senses. Producers that want to amaze their customers with the texture, flavor and quality of the ham they sell combine the appetizer with a good Spanish wine which will enhance even more the meat flavor. Iberian pigs have plenty of natural space to roam free and exercise which is also an important factor to their health and the quality products that are made from them. Workouts and pigs’ special diets help producers obtain a one-of-a-kind ham.
The second category of jamón Ibérico is the jamón de recebo. Unlike the jamón ibérico de bellota mentioned earlier, this type of ham is obtained from black pigs that were fed with acorns, natural grass, and also fodder. Fodder is the name of the food used for animals; it contains straw, hay and legumes. Because the hogs are fed with a combination of grains and acorns, the price of this jamón de recebo is lower than the price of the jamón de bellota. However, this is a great ham too.
The last category of ham produced from black pigs is the jamón de cebo, which obtained from pigs that were fed only with grains and natural grass. Even though the hogs do not eat delicacies, like acorns, the taste and flavor of the ham or jamón de cebo is very good too. This type of ham can also be cured for up to 24 months. The price of this type of ham could be approximately between £160-£180, this ham is also very popular.
Regardless of the ham type, tapas are always perfect for any occasion. They are natural products, because they are made from pigs and because their diets and exercise are well controlled by farmers and producers. During their complex curing process, every inch of the Spanish ham becomes full of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Another advantage of this ham is that it can best combined with a Spanish wine, unlike other appetizers, which work mainly with juices, beer, etc. So if you want to impress your guests, or simply immerse yourself into a joy of unique tastes and natural textures, order a Spanish ham and Spanish wine today.
The Spanish cuisine is renowned for its flavours, colors and tastes. If you want to experience Spain at its very best, contact Natural Spanish Products, and they will deliver a special Spanish wine http://www.spanish-wine-food.co.uk/wines.html and an Iberian ham http://www.spanish-wine-food.co.uk/ham.html for your special event.