Jamon Iberico 'Iberico Ham'

The Jamon Iberico is the back leg of the pig and is larger than the 'Paleta Iberica' (Iberico Shoulder). As the ham is larger, it changes the distribution and quality of the meat- compared to the Iberico Ham shoulder, the ham has a less intermuscular fat content.

Taste and Texture

Iberico Ham 'Jamon Iberico' due to its size, has a longer curing process. This matures the meat more and give the Jamon a more intricate and nuanced flavour which is famously subtle for. The Iberico Ham has a deeper, richer sensation as the flavours in the meat have had time to mellow and intermingle, while the 'younger' shoulder is rich and intense on the palate. Many prefer this delicate meat and appreciate its complexity.

Appearance

Looking at the meat, the Iberico Ham is darker. Compared to the Paleta Iberica, the Iberico Ham is less boney and has a higher yield of meat. Due to the long creation process, the Jamon is the more expensive of the two.

Paleta Iberica 'Iberico Ham Shoulder'

 The shoulder is the front leg of the pig which is shorter and lighter than the Jamon. This means the shoulder is smaller and there is a difference in the distribution of fat and meat. The shoulder is recognisable by the distinctively shaped shoulder blade, or palette (known as Paletilla in Spanish)  which gives the shoulder its name: Paleta Iberica.