What Are the Common Ham Brands in Supermarkets? Experience Sharing
When it comes to life in Spain, ham is truly an indispensable delicacy on the dining table. Many newcomers to Spain visit supermarkets to buy ham but often get confused by the wide range of brands. As a long-time food lover living in Spain, here is a guide to buying ham in Spanish supermarkets where I share some common ham brands found in Spanish supermarkets along with my buying advice. Feel free to join the conversation!
Common Ham Brands and Categories in Supermarkets
Spanish ham mainly includes two categories: Jamón Serrano and Jamón Ibérico. Popular supermarkets like Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, or Alcampo offer a wide selection with different brands. Below is a table listing some common brands and their characteristics:
| Brand | Type | Price Range |
|---|
| Navidul | Serrano/Ibérico | Medium |
| Campofrío | Serrano | Affordable |
| El Pozo | Serrano | Affordable |
| Joselito | Ibérico | Premium |
| Monte Nevado | Ibérico | High |
| Carrefour Own Brand | Serrano/Ibérico | Affordable |
Buying Tips and Personal Experience
If you are new to Spain and have a modest budget when looking for ham sausages in Spanish supermarkets, starting with Serrano ham is a good choice. Navidul and Campofrío are widely available brands and easy to find in most supermarkets. Their sliced ham packs are convenient with a good shelf life, making them great for gifts as well.
If you want to experience a more premium taste in a Spanish ham supermarket, you can opt for the Ibérico series, such as the well-established Joselito or Monte Nevado. These have rich fat content and a mellow flavor but come at a higher price point.
Supermarket Shopping Tips
- Choose vacuum-sealed sliced packaging for higher freshness.
- Check if the packaging front displays “Reserva” or “Gran Reserva,” indicating a longer curing time and better flavor.
- Personally, I prefer bone-in whole hams to cut gradually, but beginners are recommended to buy sliced ham for convenience.
Ham Storage and Serving Suggestions
After purchasing ham, avoid storing it in the fridge for too long. Consume it soon after cutting to preserve the flavor. It can be kept at room temperature, and it’s best to cut only as much as you will eat. Sliced ham works well directly in sandwiches and pairs nicely with melon and red wine.
Summary and Discussion Welcome
Spanish supermarket ham brands are numerous and each has unique qualities. You can try different ones depending on your needs and budget. If you have favorite or disappointing brands, feel free to share your experience in the replies so we can help each other discover hidden gems or avoid bad buys!
