How to cut ham: techniques and tips
Cutting ham is a skill that requires practice and precision. It is a ritual that enhances the flavor and texture of this delicacy. Below, we offer you a complete guide so you can cut ham like a true professional.
Essential tools
When it comes to cutting ham, in addition to knowing how to do it, we need to have some essential tools to do it:
- Knife ham holder: the most important tool. Its long and flexible blade allows you to make fine and uniform cuts.
- Jamonero: a support that fixes the piece of ham and makes cutting easier.
- Chaira: to sharpen the knife before and during cutting.
Cutting techniques
And here comes the question: how to cut ham? To carry out this task, it is necessary to take into account a series of technical cutting recommendations. With them we will be able to obtain and enhance the flavor and texture of the product:
- Position of the ham: place the leg or shoulder on the ham holder with the hoof facing up.
- Start with the mace: the meatiest and most flavorful part. Make thin cuts parallel to the bone.
- Follow the grain: respect the natural direction of the muscle fibers to obtain juicier slices.
- Pressure and angle: Apply gentle, constant pressure, keeping the knife at an angle of about 30 degrees.
- Thickness: the thickness of the slices will depend on personal taste. Ideally, they should be thin and transparent.
Tips for a perfect cut
Do you want to know more about how to cut ham and get the most out of it? We leave you some tips to keep in mind when making the cut:
- Sharpening the knife: a sharp knife guarantees clean and precise cuts.
- Room Temperature: take the ham out of the refrigerator an hour before cutting it so that it reaches room temperature.
- Cleaning: clean the knife frequently to prevent it from rusting and contaminating the ham.
- Rest: let the ham rest between cuts so that it oxygenates slightly and enhances its flavor.
- Preservation: once cut, the ham is best preserved when vacuum packed.
With this guide, you will be able to cut ham like a true professional and enjoy all its flavor and aroma. Bon appetit!
