Jamón Ibérico: How to Choose, Slice, and Serve Spain’s Finest Ham

Jamón Ibérico is one of Spain’s most treasured culinary delights — a delicacy that deserves to be served with the same care and tradition with which it is produced. Whether you are hosting a tapas night, a holiday celebration, or simply enjoying a quiet moment of indulgence, learning how to serve Jamón Ibérico correctly will elevate the entire experience.

Choosing the Right Jamón Ibérico

At Deliberico, we carry only premium Jamón Ibérico from renowned producers such as Cinco Jotas, Montaraz, Fermin, and COVAP. You can choose between:

• Whole Jamón Ibérico (leg) – perfect for traditional slicing at home. Nothing compares to carving your own bone-in Jamón Ibérico.

• Paleta Ibérica (shoulder) – slightly smaller and more affordable, ideal for those seeking a more intense, rustic flavor.

Key Differences Between Jamón and Paleta

• Jamón (Ham): From the hind leg, larger, with more meat and a refined profile thanks to longer curing.

• Paleta (Shoulder): From the front leg, smaller, richer in fat, offering a bolder and more rustic flavor.

Both are equally authentic, and slicing them yourself transforms tasting into a true ritual.

How to Slice Jamón Ibérico

Serving Jamón Ibérico from a whole leg is an art form. The goal is to achieve thin, almost translucent slices that melt in your mouth.

Tips for slicing like a pro:

• Use the right tools — a jamonero knife, ham stand, and sharpening steel.

• Secure the ham firmly in the stand.

• Start hoof up if serving immediately; hoof down for longer storage.

• Remove the yellow fat, keeping the creamy white fat that enhances flavor.

• Slice thin, even pieces that include both lean and fat.

• Always serve at room temperature (let it rest 15–20 minutes before serving).

🎥 Here is a video tutorial from 5 Jotas that demonstrates the proper slicing technique.

Serving Jamón Ibérico

Jamón Ibérico shines when served simply:

• Room temperature only — never serve straight from the fridge.

• Flat plate presentation — arrange slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping, and include pieces from different sections of the ham to balance flavors and textures.

• Perfect pairings — Manchego cheese, Marcona almonds, crusty bread, and a glass of Rioja or cava.

💡 Pro tip: If slicing feels intimidating, try our pre-sliced Jamón Ibérico packs or the convenient Montaraz Jamón Ibérico Plates, perfectly cut and arranged.

🎥 Watch this short serving plates tip video here.

👉 Explore our Whole Jamón Ibérico Collection and Sliced Selection to bring the authentic taste of Spain to your table.