Which Iberian Ham should you choose: Bellota or Grass-Fed?

Which Iberian Ham to buy: Bellota vs. Grass-Fed

If you're thinking about buying Iberian Ham and don't know where to start, you're not alone. In today’s post from Olalla Jamones, we’ll explain the differences between the various types of Iberian Ham so you can confidently answer the big question: Which Iberian Ham should I choose: Bellota or Grass-Fed?

Let’s get into it. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose wisely.

What is Iberian Ham?

First things first: what exactly is Iberian Ham? Iberian Ham is a cured meat product made from Iberian breed pigs. These pigs are renowned for their ability to infiltrate fat into the muscle, resulting in juicy, aromatic, and flavorful cuts.

However, not all Iberian Hams are the same: the pigs' diet and breeding conditions significantly affect the quality.

Acorn-Fed Iberian Ham vs. Grass-Fed Iberian Ham

To distinguish between Acorn-Fed Iberian Ham and Grass-Fed Iberian Ham, let’s focus on four main aspects: the pigs’ diet, the flavor and texture, curing time, and price.

✅ Acorn-Fed Iberian Ham

• Acorn-Fed Iberian Ham comes from pigs raised freely in the dehesa and fed mainly on acorns during the montanera season.

• More intense flavor and richer, buttery texture.

• Longer curing time (36 months or more).

• Buying Acorn-Fed Iberian Ham is ideal for those seeking the authentic, traditional taste of Iberian Ham.

✅ Grass-Fed Iberian Ham

• Grass-Fed Iberian Ham is produced from pigs raised in semi-free conditions and fed on natural grasses and feed.

• Balanced flavor and excellent value for money.

• Curing time of around 24–30 months.

• Buying Grass-Fed Iberian Ham is perfect for those who want high-quality ham without spending as much as for Bellota

Where to buy Iberian Ham online with confidence

The next question is: Where can I buy Iberian Ham online with guarantees? Don’t let yourself be fooled.

At Olalla Jamones, we offer both Acorn-Fed Iberian Ham and Grass-Fed Iberian Ham with the Jabugo Protected Designation of Origin, handcrafted in Santa Olalla del Cala (Huelva). You can buy Iberian Ham online with complete confidence, free shipping on orders over €75, and personalized service.

➡️ See our selection of Iberian Hams

Tips before buying Iberian Ham

Finally, we’ve taken the liberty of putting together some tips before you buy Iberian Ham:

• Choose the format: whole piece, boneless, or hand-sliced.

• Check the label: black (100% Iberian Bellota), red (50% or 75% Iberian Bellota), green (Grass-Fed). At Olalla Jamones, we do not sell standard cebo ham.

• Read customer reviews.

✅ Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you go for Acorn-Fed or Grass-Fed, buying Iberian Ham is an investment in flavor and tradition. In our online store for ham and acorn-fed cured meats, we’ll help you find the perfect ham for you, whether for daily enjoyment or as a gift.

Still have questions? Write to us or check our FAQ section to learn more.