Ham with olive aroma

Olive-Scented Ham: A Gastronomic Treasure from Granada

In the heart of Granada, between centuries-old olive groves and the majestic Sierra Parapanda, lies a gastronomic secret that defies convention: olive-scented ham. Sierra Parapanda, a family business with deep roots in the Brácana region, has revolutionized the world of ham by raising pigs fed primarily on olives. This unique practice in Spain has not only won over discerning palates, but has also demonstrated its superiority in blind tastings compared to the renowned acorn-fed Iberian hams.

The Origin of an Unparalleled Flavor

The story of this exceptional ham begins in 1978, when the Jiménez family acquired a 200-hectare farm in Brácana, a small town in Íllora. Inspired by the abundance of olive trees, they decided to raise pigs that would feed on the fallen olives, taking advantage of the area’s natural resources. The philosophy was simple but revolutionary: if Iberian pigs raised on acorns produce magnificent hams, why not explore the potential of pigs fed on olives?

A Natural and Sustainable Breeding Process

The pigs of Sierra Parapanda enjoy a free-range life under surveillance, grazing among olive groves and feeding on olives, barley, corn, and wheat. This natural rearing regime not only guarantees animal welfare but also influences the quality and flavor of the ham. The olive-based diet gives the meat a concentration of essential oils, such as Omega 3 and Omega 6, which translate into a unique aroma and flavor.

Artisanal and Traditional Production

The production of olive-scented ham follows an artisanal and traditional process that respects curing times. Sierra Parapanda’s facilities, which include a cutting room, cold storage, a drying room, and a salting room, are designed to ensure quality at every stage. Salting, a crucial step, is carried out with precision, using one day’s worth of salt per kilo of the ham’s weight. Curing, which can last between two and a half and four years, takes place in an environment with unique climatic conditions, where cold winters and hot summers contribute to the ham’s optimal maturation.

A Flavor that Conquers Palates

Sierra Parapanda’s olive-scented ham has been the subject of studies and blind tastings that have revealed its exceptional quality. A study by the Andalusian Regional Government’s Health Department highlighted its “extremely high quality” organoleptic characteristics, its “highly competitive price,” and its healthy nutritional profile. In a comparative tasting with acorn-fed ham, olive-flavored ham obtained a higher score, consolidating its position as a top-level gourmet product.

Health Benefits

In addition to its unparalleled flavor, olive-flavored ham offers health benefits. Its high concentration of oleic unsaturated fatty acids makes it a heart-healthy product, helping to lower cholesterol and protect the cardiovascular system. The presence of Omega 3 and Omega 6, essential fatty acids, also provides benefits for brain health and the immune system.

A Unique and Exclusive Product

Sierra Parapanda is proud to be the only company in Spain that produces olive-flavored ham. This exclusivity translates into a unique and special product, reflecting the terroir of Granada and a family’s passion for tradition and innovation.

Product and Market Diversification

In addition to hams and shoulders, Sierra Parapanda offers a wide range of cured meats and fresh meats, all made with pigs raised with olives. The company has managed to expand its market nationally and internationally, reaching countries such as France and Switzerland.

Olive-Scented Ham: A Family Legacy with a Future

The second generation of the Jiménez family continues the legacy of its founder, with the goal of preserving the tradition and expanding the recognition of olive-scented ham. The company hopes that future generations will join this family project, which represents a gastronomic treasure of Granada.

In short, Sierra Parapanda olive-scented ham is an exceptional product that combines tradition, innovation, and flavor. Its natural aging process, artisanal production, and health benefits make it a gastronomic gem that deserves to be discovered and enjoyed.