World's Best Ham by PataNegra.dk

Spain has once again put one of its most iconic foods in the spotlight: jamón. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has opened the 2026 edition of the Alimentos de España Awards for Best Hams, a national contest that recognizes quality, tradition, and the skill behind Spanish cured ham. Applications are open until May 7, 2026, giving producers across the country the chance to present their best pieces. The goal is not only to choose a winner but also to promote Spanish ham as a product with a history, identity, and real craft behind it. Two Categories, One Big Tradition The awards are divided into two main groups. One is for Best Serrano Ham or other recognized quality figures, while the other focuses on Best Bellota Ibérico Ham, one of Spain's most famous gourmet products. To take part, producers must be based in Spain, and the company itself must make the ham. They also need to show a steady production record, including at least 1,500 pieces a year over the last three...

  A Taste of Spanish Legacy In the heart of Spain, where passion and tradition meet, few names inspire as much pride as Joselito, often praised as the world’s best ham. For over a century, this iconic house has stood as a testament to authentic Spanish culinary craftsmanship. Every slice carries a story of patience, heritage, and the steady hands that keep these traditions alive. But this year, Joselito’s fame isn’t just about flavour. The legendary producer has found itself at the centre of a European legal storm, one that questions how traditional foods can be described in the modern market. EU Steps In: A Ban on ‘Healthy’ Claims The European Commission has barred Joselito from saying that its Jamón Serrano or Ibérico has “healthy properties.” Under EU Regulation 1924/2006, no food — even one as natural and artisanal as Joselito’s ham can be promoted with health claims unless there’s solid scientific proof behind it. This ruling means Joselito can no longer call its ham “natural ...

Pata Negra Ham Monte Nevado, a distinguished name in gourmet hams, has once again redefined culinary boundaries with its latest edition of the "Unexpected Pairing" series. This innovative initiative transforms the traditional ham and bread combination into a multisensory journey, this time spotlighting the harmonious fusion of orange wines and artisan bread. The result is an elevated gastronomic experience that tantalizes the palate and challenges conventional pairings. A Guided Sensory Exploration with Jonatan Armengol The event was masterfully led by renowned food critic Jonatan Armengol at El Privado, accompanied by Chema de la Fuente, Monte Nevado's communications manager. Together, they orchestrated a blind tasting featuring three of Monte Nevado's exceptional hams: the 100% Bellota Iberian Ham, the Mangalica Ham, and the 24-month Serrano Ham. Each was thoughtfully paired with distinctive artisan breads and meticulously selected orange wines, crafting a narrative...