Iberian ham in the USA

Ibérico Ham in USA

The chef José Andrés, a Michelin-starred chef and renowned ambassador of Spanish culture around the world, has tirelessly defended the quality and cultural value of Ibérico bellota ham, asserting that the best comes from pigs raised freely in the Valle de Los Pedroches. His residence in the United States and his constant promotion of the product have been key to the growing consolidation of Ibérico ham in USA, transforming it from an exotic gourmet delicacy to a more accessible item for the American consumer.

For José Andrés, ham is not just a delicacy but a cultural symbol as representative of Spain as pasta is for Italy or the croissant for France. His commitment to this product even led him to open a bar in Chicago dedicated exclusively to Ibérico ham, solidifying his position as a reference in Spanish gastronomy in North America. His statements, such as those made in the Netflix series With Love, Meghan, where he asserts that “Everyone should have an Ibérico bellota ham at home,” aim to integrate this culinary luxury into American everyday life.

The most relevant phenomenon in the expansion of Ibérico ham in USA has been its entry into the mass distribution channel, particularly through the popular supermarket chain Costco. The commercialization of a whole Ibérico bellota ham leg in these stores went viral, indicating a significant change in consumption habits and product accessibility. This leg, which weighs approximately 7 kilograms and comes with its cutting knife and stand, is offered at a price of $649.99.

This price is notably lower than that of artisanal pieces found in Spain or those served in high-end restaurants in the United States. The savings are monumental compared to the prices at José Andrés’ own establishments, where a Jabugo leg weighing between 2 and 3 kilos can cost $1,599. Consequently, consumers in the country endorse Costco’s offer for its “excellent” quality-price ratio. Reviews highlight the flavor, authenticity, and difficulty of finding real quality Ibérico ham in the US market at a similar cost, considering that the cut translates to just over 90 euros per kilo.

The quality of the ham that is popularizing Ibérico ham in USA is maintained because it follows rigorous traditional standards. The product comes from 100% Ibérico pigs, raised freely in the dehesa (oak forest pasture) of the Valle de Los Pedroches, in southern Spain. The rearing ensures that each animal enjoys a minimum of one hectare for movement, which guarantees optimal muscle quality. The diet, essential for the flavor, is based on acorns (bellotas), pasture grasses, and native plants, giving the Ibérico ham its characteristic deep flavor, buttery texture, and nutty aroma. Furthermore, the three-year curing process of the Costco piece is a key factor that allows the fat to slowly infiltrate the meat, enriching it.

The mass market presence of ham in the United States through chains like Costco represents a triumph for Spanish gastronomy, making it easier for consumers to explore one of the jewels of its culinary culture. As José Andrés defends, beyond budget or preferences, having an Ibérico ham leg at home is one of the greatest pleasures, and this new mass distribution channel is making that pleasure a reality for a much wider audience in North America.