ACORNS, HAM´S BASE

Acorns, the noble fruit of the dehesa, are the essence that gives flavor and quality to the finest Iberian pork, transforming nature into a unique delicacy.

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Acorns are the essential food during the montanera phase, the period when Iberian pigs roam freely in the dehesas before their slaughter. This fruit, rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, is key to the development of Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, contributing to the fat infiltration that gives it its characteristic juiciness and texture. During the montanera, pigs cover vast areas in search of acorns, which helps develop their musculature and enhances the quality of the meat.

The acorn-based diet not only influences the texture of the ham but also its distinctive flavor and aroma. Rich in oleic acid, acorns produce a healthy, silky fat that melts in the mouth, providing sweet nuances and a long-lasting aftertaste. This type of feeding sets Jamón Ibérico de Bellota apart from any other, granting it a superior quality recognized worldwide. Additionally, the combination of acorns with natural pastures and the pigs' daily exercise creates the perfect balance in their diet.

The montanera is a regulated process that ensures each pig consumes the right amount of acorns and reaches the ideal weight for producing top-quality Iberian ham. Only pigs that meet these standards receive the "Ibérico de Bellota" certification, guaranteeing an exclusive and authentic product. This traditional breeding method, passed down through generations, not only maintains the excellence of Jamón Ibérico but also preserves the dehesa ecosystem, ensuring its sustainability for the future.

Pigs