Iberico Pork: Your Complete Guide to Flavorful, Nutritious, and Sustainable Spanish Pork

What is Iberico Pork?

 Iberico Pork, also known as cured ham, is a traditional Spanish delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made from the meat of the Iberico pig, a breed native to Spain and Portugal, and is known for its rich flavor and unique dietary benefits. It is a hardy breed that can withstand the hot, arid climate of the region and has been raised for both its meat and its lard. The meat of the Iberico pig is the foundation of traditional Spanish cuisine, and Iberico Pork has been enjoyed as a delicacy for centuries.

What Makes Iberico Pork Special?

Iberico Pork is special for several reasons, including its unique flavor profile, healthy unsaturated fat content, and traditional production methods. The flavor of Iberico Pork is due to the pig's diet of acorns and wild herbs, which results in a rich, nutty taste. The acorn diet also contributes to the high levels of unsaturated fat in the meat, making it a healthier alternative to other types of cured pork products.

In terms of production, Iberico Pork is made using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations. The pigs roam freely in oak forests, where they feed on acorns and other wild herbs, and are then fattened on a diet of barley and corn. The cured meats are made using traditional techniques that have been refined over time, resulting in a unique and delicious prod

What is the history of Iberico Pork?

Iberico Pork has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The Iberico breed of pig is indigenous to the Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal, and has been raised in this region for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Iberico pig was domesticated and raised for food as early as 3000 BC, and it has been an important part of the local cuisine ever since.

During the Roman Empire, the Iberico pig was highly valued for its meat, which was considered a delicacy. Over the centuries, the breed evolved and adapted to the local environment, and the production methods for Iberico Pork were refined. The acorn-based diet of the pigs, combined with traditional curing methods, resulted in a unique and delicious product that was highly sought after.

In the 20th century, Iberico Pork suffered a decline as industrialization and modernization took hold. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional food products, and Iberico Pork has once again become a sought-after delicacy. Today, Iberico Pork is produced using traditional methods, and its rich flavor and healthy fat content make it a popular choice for meat lovers around the world.

What cuts of Iberico Pork does The Meatery sell?

The Meatery carries Campo Grande Iberico Pork. Currently, we sell:

4 Rib Rack

The 4 Rib Rack of Iberico Pork is a type of cut that is taken from the rib section of the pig. It is composed of four rib bones and the associated meat, which is often served as a roasted rack. The 4 rib rack is a flavorful and tender cut that is well-suited to a variety of cooking methods, including roasting, grilling, and barbecuing.

The 4 Rib Rack is a popular cut of meat for special occasions and dinner parties because it provides an impressive and delicious main course. When roasted or grilled, the meat is juicy and tender, with a mild, slightly sweet

 Abanico Steak

The Abanico steak is a cut of meat taken from the loin section of an Iberico pig. It is a thin and boneless cut that is shaped like a fan, hence the name "Abanico," which means "fan" in Spanish.

The Abanico steak is known for its tenderness and rich, nutty flavor, which is attributed to the Iberico breed's diet of acorns and wild herbs. It is usually cooked quickly over high heat, such as grilling or pan-frying, to preserve its tender texture and delicate flavor.

The Abanico steak is a versatile cut that can be served as a main course, or it can be sliced and used in salads, sandwiches, or tacos. It is also a popular cut for tapas and appetizers, as it is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed raw or cooked.

Coppa

The Coppa cut is taken from the neck muscle of an Iberico pig, and is a flavorful and versatile cut of meat. It is known for its rich, nutty flavor and tender texture, which is attributed to the Iberico breed's diet of acorns and wild herbs.

The Coppa cut is a versatile meat that can be grilled, pan-fried, or roasted, making it suitable for a variety of dishes and cooking methods. It can be served as a main course, sliced and used in sandwiches or salads, or served as a topping for pizzas.

The Coppa cut is a popular choice for those who enjoy the unique and delicious flavor of Iberico pork. Whether you're preparing a meal for a special occasion or just looking for a new twist on an old favorite, the Coppa cut from The Meatery is sure to be a delicious addition to any dish.

Pluma Steak 

The Pluma Steak is a cut of meat taken from the Iberico pig, and is prized for its rich, juicy flavor and tender texture. It is cut from the pork shoulder, near the loin, and has a distinctive shape that gives it its name, "pluma" meaning feather in Spanish.

The Pluma Steak has a high fat content which makes it incredibly juicy and flavorful when cooked. It can be grilled, pan-fried, or roasted, and is a great choice for those who enjoy bold, meaty flavors.

This cut of meat is perfect for those who want to enjoy the unique taste of Iberico pork in a steak form. Its tender texture and rich flavor make it a popular choice for special occasions, or for those who simply want to treat themselves to a delicious meal. The Pluma Steak from The Meatery is sure to be a hit with any meat lover, and is a must-try for anyone who loves the taste of Iberico pork.

Presa Steak 

The Presa Steak is a cut of meat taken from the shoulder of the Iberico pig, near the neck. It is known for its rich, juicy flavor and tender texture, and is a popular choice for those who love the taste of Iberico pork.

The Presa Steak has a high fat content, which contributes to its flavor and tenderness, and is best cooked over high heat to caramelize the exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender. It can be grilled, pan-fried, or roasted, and is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes.

The Presa Steak is a unique and delicious cut of meat, and is a great choice for anyone who loves the taste of Iberico pork. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a popular choice for special occasions, or for those who simply want to enjoy a delicious meal. The Presa Steak from The Meatery is sure to be a hit with any meat lover, and is a must-try for anyone who loves the taste of Iberico pork. 

Secreto Steak

The Secreto Steak is a cut of meat taken from the Iberico pig and is known for its unique flavor and texture. It is cut from the pork shoulder and is often referred to as a "secret cut" as it is less well known than other cuts of pork.

The Secreto Steak is best cooked over high heat to caramelize the exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender. It can be grilled, pan-fried, or roasted, and is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes.

This cut of meat is a great choice for anyone who loves the taste of Iberico pork and wants to try something a little different. The Secreto Steak from The Meatery is sure to impress any meat lover, and is a must-try for those looking to explore the unique flavors of Iberico pork. 

St. Louis Ribs

The St. St. Louis Ribs are a cut of meat taken from the Iberico pig, and are known for their delicious flavor and tender texture. They are cut from the spare ribs and have a unique shape that makes them easy to handle and cook.

The St. St. Louis Ribs are best cooked over low heat, either on a grill or in an oven, to allow the meat to slowly become tender and infused with flavor. They are often seasoned with spices or marinated before cooking, and are a popular choice for barbecues and casual dining.

These ribs are a great choice for anyone who loves the taste of Iberico pork and wants to try something a little different. The St. St. Louis Ribs from The Meatery are sure to impress any meat lover, and are a must-try for those looking to explore the delicious flavors of Iberico pork.

How to Cook Iberico Pork

Iberico pork is a prized meat with a rich, savory flavor. It can be prepared using several cooking methods, but the most popular ones include grilling, roasting, and pan-searing. Grilling Iberico pork over an open flame imparts a smoky flavor and creates a crispy exterior. Roasting in the oven results in a tender and juicy interior. Pan-searing is a quick and easy method that preserves the succulent flavor of the meat. Whether you prefer grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, Iberico pork is sure to impress your taste buds with its unique and delicious taste.

Smoking Iberico pork is another popular way to prepare this delectable meat. This technique involves cooking the meat in a smoker over a low temperature, which infuses it with a smoky flavor that complements its natural richness. To smoke Iberico pork, start by seasoning the meat with a dry rub, then place it in the smoker and cook it slowly until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. You can use various types of wood chips to impart different flavors, such as hickory, apple, or cherry wood. Smoking Iberico pork is a great way to add a new dimension to this already delicious meat, and it's sure to impress your guests at your next barbecue or dinner party.

Does Iberico Pork Need to be Cooked Well-Done? 

Like any pork, Iberico pork should be cooked thoroughly to prevent the risk of foodborne illness. However, it doesn't necessarily need to be cooked well-done. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest time. This will ensure that the meat is safe to eat while still retaining its tenderness and juiciness.

When it comes to Iberico pork, some chefs prefer to cook it to a slightly lower temperature to maintain its unique flavor and texture. However, this requires careful attention to food safety practices and is not recommended for those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, and young children.

Ultimately, the level of doneness you prefer for your Iberico pork will depend on your personal taste and any health considerations. It's always important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork is cooked to a safe temperature before serving.