Curing Time: 48 months
Need we say more? This is ham is revered by ham lovers around the World. Cinco Jotas acorn-fed Ibérico ham is Spain's national treasure. It's an unrivaled product obtained from the rear legs of Ibérico pigs raised free range in the meadows of south-west Spain.
Ibérico de Bellota is the the World's ultimate cured pork. And in the World of Ibérico, Cinco Jotas is known as one of the most elite brands. In fact, the word Jabugo, the town made famous by Cinco Jotas, is now synonymous with top quality Ibérico ham.
Cinco Jotas uses only 100% genetically pure bred Ibérico pigs that live their entire lives roaming the countryside of Spain. Some other companies cross breed Ibérico pigs with other breeds to increase the litter size and meat production. Cinco Jotas prefers to use only 100% pure Ibérico even though it is more expensive.
Each fall the breeders set aside a select group of young pigs, allowing them to roam the dehesa woodlands. There they feast upon acorns which fall in abundance from the holm oak and cork trees. They gorge themselves, putting on at least two pounds of weight each day! It is important to note that if you see a paleta or ham advertised as simply 'Ibérico' but not 'Bellota', the animals did not live this idyllic lifestyle and the quality of the ham is not the same.
When it is time for their sacrifice (the Spanish term for slaughter), these genetically unique animals produce Paleta Ibérico de Bellota that are marbled with rich golden fat infused with the flavor of the Ibérico pigs' favorite food: the acorn - 'bellota' in Spanish. Remarkably, a good portion of which is mono-unsaturated, similar to healthy olive oil. Sliced paper-thin, it glistens at room temperature and provides an inimitable rich nutty flavor and tender texture.
Cinco Jotas puts a gourmet delight within your reach: the only ham that keeps the purity and distinction of it's historic Ibérico breed. At the same time, it unveils textures and aromas able to charm the most demanding of palates. You just can't go wrong with Cinco Jotas Ibérico ham.
* Gluten free
