World's Best Ham by PataNegra.dk

Pata Negra Ham Under the shade of ancient oaks, the harmonious grunts of Iberian pigs echo across the Dehesa, the Mediterranean ecosystem where the prized acorn-fed Iberian ham is born. This unique process, known as the montanera, combines centuries-old traditions, sustainability, and expert craftsmanship to create a product synonymous with Spanish gastronomy: Pata Negra Ham. Guided by José María de la Fuente, head of communications, and José Manuel Jiménez, head of purchasing at Monte Nevado, we explored the intricate system behind the production of Iberian ham. The process celebrates the symbiotic relationship between humans, animals, and the environment. The Dehesa: A Transformed Ecosystem The dehesa, more than a forest, is an ecosystem carefully curated over centuries. Trees like the holm oak, cork oak, gall oak, and oak have been selectively nurtured to produce acorns, the primary food source for Iberian pigs during the montanera. These trees not only sustain the pigs but also for...