Quick Answer: Can You Freeze Serrano Ham?
No, it is best advised not to freeze serrano ham. Although it is safe to eat, the serrano ham will lose all its quality and its painstakingly crafted flavor when you freeze it. You can instead, store it in a dark and dry place or vacuum seal it to store it for the long term.
If you are wondering whether you can freeze serrano ham or not, this comprehensive guide has got you covered.
I find the following tips extremely helpful. So, let’s dive right into it.
Why You Shouldn’t Freeze Serrano Ham
Although freezing seems like the go-to way of preserving food, in this case, it is not the best idea.
When you freeze the serrano ham, it changes the texture of the meat, destroying its flavor and quality that is carefully developed over time.
Even if it is safe to eat the serrano ham once it is frozen, you will be throwing all those years of curing and money out the window. So, it is best advised not to put the serrano ham in the freezer.
How to Store Serrano Ham?
Though you can’t freeze it, you can use the following methods to make sure that the serrano ham lasts for a long period.
Placing the Fat Back on It
If you take care while cutting the ham, you can collect the fat portions off the top of the ham.
When you are done taking out the portions you need, you can place the fat back on the ham and cover it with a cloth or woven sack to keep it fresh for longer.
To store it better, you can hang it with its hoof facing up rather than lay it horizontal on a ham holder or the shelf.
Keep It in a Dark and Dry Place
Sunlight and heat can affect the quality and flavor of the meat. So, it is best to keep it covered in a dark and dry place for keeping its flavor intact.
Vacuum Seal
If you have cut slices of ham to store, the best option is to vacuum seal them. You could also use a cling wrap to cover and store them, but make sure to keep it as air-tight as possible.
In the Fridge
If you have leftover sliced ham, you could also opt to keep them stored in the fridge for a while. Cover the serrano ham slices with parchment paper and make sure that it is not placed near food that gives out a strong odor.
Does Serrano Ham Freeze Well?
No, serrano ham does not freeze well. Freezing the serrano ham alters its texture, and as a result, the flavor and the quality of the serrano ham are lost.
Years of careful breeding and curing go into getting the perfect serrano ham. All of this will be lost in a matter of hours if you freeze them. So, even if it is safe to eat, freezing serrano ham is a bad idea.
They are best stored in dark and dry places, covered or vacuum-sealed. It is best advised to consume the serrano ham within four months after it is cut.
FAQ
You can freeze vacuum-packed serrano ham for 2 to 3 months. The vacuum packing merely postpones the expiry date. So, it is best to consume it sooner rather than later and once the seal is opened, make sure to use it immediately; the ham can dry and spoil if left out for long.
Sliced serrano ham can last for 2 to 3 months as long as it is covered well and keep in a cool and dry place. If it isn’t covered properly, it can dry out and lose its flavor. You could vacuum seal the serrano ham slices to store them for longer.
Bottom Line
I hope this article helped you figure out how to store serrano ham for the long term.
If you have any doubts or would like to share some tips and tricks of your own, it would be great to hear from you.
Feel free to share this article with your ham-loving friends and family.