
Preserve your Iberian ham as an expert: avoid these errors
Ibérico ham is a gastronomic jewel, and like any exceptional product, it deserves special care. Whether it's a whole piece or vacuum-packed slices, poor storage can affect its flavour, texture… and your investment!
Here we explain how to store it properly and the mistakes you must avoid at all costs.
🧂 1. Common mistake: Putting it in the fridge without thinking
✅ Recommendation:
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If it’s a whole, unopened piece, never refrigerate it. Store it in a cool, dry and ventilated place, between 15 °C and 20 °C.
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If it’s sliced and vacuum-packed, then yes: store it in the least cold area of the fridge (7–10 °C).
⚠️ Excessive cold dries out the fat and alters its natural aroma.
🔪 2. Mistake: Not covering the cut surface properly
✅ Recommendation:
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After slicing, cover the exposed area with slices of its own white fat or a clean cotton cloth.
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Then place a breathable cloth on top (no plastic wrap!).
❌ Oxygen is the enemy of ham: if it dries out, it loses flavour and oxidises.
☀️ 3. Mistake: Exposing it to direct sunlight
✅ Recommendation:
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Store the piece in a dark place or somewhere with little natural light.
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Direct light heats the fat, accelerates rancidity, and ruins the texture.
🧊 4. Mistake: Opening the pack while cold
✅ Recommendation:
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If you have vacuum-packed slices, take them out of the fridge 30 minutes before eating.
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Let them reach room temperature and open the pack just before serving.
🧠 Ibérico ham releases its full aroma and flavour at room temperature (≈22 °C). Cold makes it lose smoothness and character.
🧴 5. Mistake: Slicing without cleaning the surface
✅ Recommendation:
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If you haven’t sliced in a few days, remove the first surface layer before serving again.
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This avoids rancid flavours or dry areas.
✅ Extra tips for storing like a true ham master
Format | How to store | Optimal duration |
---|---|---|
Whole, unopened piece | Cool, dry place (no fridge) | Up to 6–9 months |
Started piece | Cover well and slice regularly | 1–2 months |
Vacuum-packed slices | Fridge (7–10 °C). Open 30 min before eating | Up to 90 days sealed / 3 days once opened |
🧲 In summary:
Storing your Ibérico ham properly makes the difference between