What is the best Spanish ham and how do you serve it?

Spanish ham, or jamón , is one of the most iconic delicacies from Spain. Jamón Ibérico or a Jamón Serrano; the quality, maturation and way of serving make the difference. In this guide you will discover the best Spanish ham , how to serve it perfectly and with which wines and side dishes you can combine this delicacy.

1. What makes Spanish ham so special?

Spanish ham is not just a meat product; it is a work of art of taste, texture and tradition. The hams are matured for months or even years, which gives them an intense umami taste and velvety texture.

What determines the quality of Spanish ham?

• Pig breed – Ibérico pigs produce the most exclusive hams.
  
• Diet of the pig – Bellota hams are fed acorns, which gives them a nutty flavor.
  
• Maturing process – The longer the ham matures, the deeper the flavour.

Internal link: Also read: The best French cheeses and how to combine them

2. The best Spanish hams: which one to choose?

Spanish ham comes in two main types: Jamón Ibérico and Jamón Serrano. Both have unique characteristics and flavor profiles.

Jamón Ibérico – King of Spanish hams

🔥 The most exclusive ham with an intense, nutty flavour.

Why choose Jamón Ibérico?

• From 100% Ibérico pigs.
  
• Slowly matured: 24 to 48 months.
  
• Creamy, melting texture with an intense flavour.

Best varieties of Jamón Ibérico:

• Jamón Ibérico de Bellota – The very best, pigs eat only acorns.
• Jamón Ibérico de Cebo – High-quality ham, but pigs are partly fed grain.
• Jamón Ibérico de Recebo – Combination of acorns and grain feed.

Internal link: Also read: What makes truffle oil authentic and how do you recognize fake variants?

Jamón Serrano – Accessible and delicious for everyday use

🔥 A soft, salty ham with a subtle aroma.

Why choose Jamón Serrano?

• Originating from white pigs.
  
• Faster maturation: 12 to 18 months.
  
• More accessible and affordable than Ibérico.

Best Varieties of Jamon Serrano:

• Jamón de Teruel – Award-winning ham from Aragon, mild and smooth.
• Jamón Gran Reserva – Matured for at least 15 months, full flavour.
• Jamón Bodega – Shorter matured (12 months), ideal for everyday use.

3. Where does the best Spanish ham come from?

• Jabugo → The epicentre of Jamón Ibérico Bellota, known for its intense nutty flavour.
• Guijuelo (Salamanca) → Softer Ibérico hams, with a slightly sweeter undertone.
• Los Pedroches (Córdoba) → Premium Ibérico Bellota hams with a deep, complex flavour.
• Trevélez (Granada) → Serrano ham with a light and delicate texture thanks to its altitude of 1500m.

Internal link: Read also: The origins of the best Spanish delicacies

4. How to serve Spanish ham like a pro?

The correct cutting and serving of Spanish ham determines the taste experience.

Step-by-step guide to cutting Spanish ham

1. Use a long, flexible ham knife ( cuchillo jamonero ).
   
2. Cut thin, almost transparent slices of the ham.
   
3. Cut from top to bottom using long, flowing strokes.
   
4. Serve the slices immediately at room temperature.

Golden serving tips:

• Serve on a wooden board with figs, almonds and olives.
• Drink a glass of Spanish red wine such as Rioja or Tempranillo.
• Do not use bread with butter – this will mask the delicate flavour of the ham.
• Pan con Tomate y Jamón: Rub a toasted baguette with garlic and ripe tomatoes, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and place a thin slice of Jamón Ibérico on top. This will create a perfect combination of crunchy, juicy and savory.

5. The perfect wine and food pairing with Spanish ham

Best wines with Spanish ham

• Jamón Ibérico → Tempranillo, Rioja, or Amontillado sherry
  
• Jamón Serrano → Albariño, Verdejo, or dry Cava

Which side dishes go well with Spanish ham?

• Pan con Tomate – Toasted bread with tomato and olive oil.
  
• Manchego cheese – Pairs perfectly with the salty ham.
  
• Candied figs & nuts – Sweet counterbalance to the salty ham.

Internal link: Also read: How to build a luxury tapas board?

Frequently asked questions about Spanish ham

What is the difference between Jamón Ibérico and Jamón Serrano?

View the answer

Jamón Ibérico comes from the Iberian pig and has a nutty, complex flavour due to its long maturation. Jamón Serrano comes from white pigs and is milder and more accessible.

How long should Spanish ham mature?

View the answer

Jamón Serrano matures on average 12 to 18 months, while Jamón Ibérico matures 24 to 48 months. The longer the maturation, the more intense the flavour.

What is the best way to cut Spanish ham?

View the answer

Use a long, flexible knife and cut thin, almost transparent slices. Always cut in long, fluid movements and serve at room temperature.

Experience Spanish ham like a true gourmet

Spanish ham is a delicacy that should be enjoyed with respect and precision. Whether you choose the exclusive Jamón Ibérico or the milder Jamón Serrano, the right cutting technique, serving temperature and wine pairing make all the difference.

Want to try a luxury Spanish ham yourself? Discover our exclusive range!

Check out the best Spanish hams here →