Iberico Pork

Indulge in the unparalleled taste of Iberico Pork, a culinary treasure that hails from the sun-kissed lands of Spain and has captivated food enthusiasts around the globe. At Fine Food Specialist, we proudly offer the finest selection of Iberico pork in the UK, providing you with an authentic taste of this exceptional delicacy.

Discover the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the distinctly nutty flavour that sets Iberico pork apart from the rest. Sourced from the renowned Iberian black pig, our Iberico pork is a true representation of premium quality and traditional craftsmanship.

What is Iberico Pork?

Ibérico pork, also known as Iberian pork, refers to premium quality pork that comes from a specific breed of pigs native to the Iberian Peninsula in Spain and Portugal. The most renowned and prized breed within this category is the Iberian black pig, which is known for its unique characteristics and exceptional flavour.

The Iberian black pig is a heritage breed that roams freely in extensive oak forests known as 'dehesas' in Spain. This free-range lifestyle allows the pigs to forage on acorns, herbs and natural resources, which contributes significantly to the development of their distinctive taste and marbling.

Iberico Pork Meat

The acorns, in particular, are a crucial part of the Iberian pig's diet during the Montanera season, a period when the pigs feast on the fallen acorns. This diet gives the meat its nutty and rich flavour, as well as the unique and desirable marbling of fat throughout the meat.

The Iberico pork is highly prized for its exquisite taste, tenderness and juiciness. The meat is darker than regular pork, owing to the pigs' acorn-rich diet. The high levels of monounsaturated fats found in the acorns also contribute to the unique texture and rich flavour of Iberico pork.

Iberico Pork Cuts

From succulent fresh Iberico pork chop cuts to mouthwatering Iberico ham, our range caters to every culinary desire. Delight in the versatility of Iberico pork as you explore various cuts for roasting, grilling or slow-cooking, each yielding a depth of flavour that is second to none.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond taste, ensuring that our Iberico Pork is ethically sourced and produced to the highest standards. We take pride in offering products that are not only a delight for the palate but also a reflection of our dedication to sustainable and responsible farming practices.

Iberico Cut Types

• Iberico Pork Pluma: This cut comes from the shoulder region of the pig, and it's known for its tenderness and marbling. It's often compared to a tenderloin but with a richer flavour due to the marbling of fat.
• Iberico Pork Secreto: The secreto comes from the shoulder area as well, specifically from between the shoulder blade and the loin. It's a tender and flavourful cut with marbling that adds succulence when cooked.
• Iberico Pork Presa: This cut is from the shoulder as well, but it's a bit more marbled and has a unique shape. It's incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked correctly, often grilled or pan-seared.
• Iberico Pork Fat: The fat from Iberico pork is quite famous for its quality. It's highly prized and often used in cooking for its rich flavour and ability to enhance the taste of dishes. It's especially renowned in cured forms, like in Iberico ham.
• Iberico Pork Ribs: These ribs are often packed with flavour due to the marbling and are known for their tenderness. They can be cooked in various ways, grilled, smoked or slow-cooked, to bring out their rich taste.
• Iberico Pork Belly: This cut is a favourite among many for its perfect balance of meat and fat. It's great for slow cooking, roasting or braising, resulting in a meltingly tender texture and a deliciously crispy skin when prepared correctly.
• Iberico Pork Cheeks: Often considered a hidden gem, pork cheeks are incredibly flavourful but require slow cooking to become tender. They're known for their richness and depth of flavour, making them a sought-after choice for stews and braises.
• Iberico Pork Loin: The loin is a leaner cut compared to some of the others on this list. It's versatile and can be cooked in various ways, roasted whole, cut into chops or even used in stews for added flavour.

Each of these cuts brings its own character to dishes, offering different textures and flavours that make Iberico pork so revered among food enthusiasts.

Can You Eat Iberico Pork Raw or Medium Raw?

Iberico pork, like any pork, should be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it's safe to eat. Consuming raw or undercooked pork can pose health risks due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria or parasites like Trichinella.

While some cuts of pork are enjoyed in dishes like cured ham (such as Iberico ham, which undergoes a specific curing process), consuming raw or undercooked pork cuts is generally not recommended due to safety concerns. Cooking pork to the recommended temperature helps ensure food safety and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.

What to Serve with Iberico Pork?

Iberico pork pairs wonderfully with various flavours and ingredients. Here are some ideas for sides and accompaniments that complement the richness and flavours of Iberico pork:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers or even a medley of roasted root vegetables can add a nice contrast to the richness of the pork.
2. Potato Dishes: Creamy mashed potatoes, crispy roasted potatoes or even a Spanish-style potato tortilla would complement the pork well.
3. Salads: A fresh salad with bitter greens like arugula or spinach, tossed with citrusy vinaigrette or a balsamic reduction, can balance the richness of the pork.
4. Fruit Compotes or Chutneys: A homemade apple or pear compote with a hint of spice or a tangy mango chutney can add a refreshing contrast.
5. Grains: Quinoa pilaf, wild rice or a simple pilaf with nuts and dried fruits can be a nice addition.
6. Sauces: A flavourful sauce like a mushroom reduction, red wine reduction or a citrus-infused sauce can elevate the dish.
7. Bread or Rolls: Crusty bread or rolls can be perfect for soaking up any delicious sauces or juices from the pork.
8. Wine Pairing: Consider pairing the dish with a Spanish red wine like Tempranillo or Rioja, which can complement the flavours of the pork nicely.

Remember, the best side dishes will depend on the specific preparation and flavours of your Iberico pork dish. Feel free to experiment and tailor the sides to enhance the overall dining experience!

Why is Iberico Pork So Expensive?

• Breed and Quality: Iberico pigs are a specific breed native to the Iberian Peninsula in Spain and Portugal. These pigs are known for their unique genetics, which results in flavourful and marbled meat. They are raised in specific conditions, often free-range and fed a diet that includes acorns (in the case of the highest quality, 'Bellota' Iberico), which contributes to the richness and distinct taste of the meat.
• Rearing Process: The traditional rearing process for Iberico pigs involves allowing them to roam freely in oak forests to forage for food, particularly acorns. This extensive and time-consuming process, along with the space required for the pigs to roam, adds to the cost.
• Time and Care: The rearing of Iberico pigs is a lengthy process. These pigs take longer to reach maturity compared to other breeds. The careful and extended raising period, along with the attention to the pigs' diet and living conditions, increases production costs.
• Limited Production: The strict regulations and limited geographical regions where Iberico pigs can be raised also contribute to the scarcity and subsequently higher prices of Iberico pork.
• Quality Control and Certification: There are various grades of Iberico pork based on the pigs' diet, living conditions and the quality of the meat. Higher grades, such as 'Bellota', which refers to pigs that have exclusively fed on acorns during a specific period, command a premium price due to their exceptional quality.

All these factors, a specific breed, rearing process, limited production and quality control, contribute to the exceptional quality and taste of Iberico pork but also drive up its price compared to conventional pork products.

Buy Iberico Pork UK

At Fine Food Specialist, we understand the importance of premium quality meats at affordable prices. Our carefully curated selection guarantees that you receive exceptional value without compromising on taste or authenticity.

Whether you're an avid food enthusiast or a culinary connoisseur, when you buy Iberico Pork online from us, it will transport you to the heart of Spain with every savoury bite. Experience the true essence of Iberico Pork, an extraordinary gastronomic journey that will leave you craving for more.

Buy Iberico London

Embrace the legacy of Iberico Pork and elevate your dining experiences to new heights. Explore our wide range of Iberico Pork products and savour the taste of Spain in every delectable morsel. With Fine Food Specialist, the finest Iberico Pork is just a click away. Buy online now and embark on a gourmet adventure that celebrates the epitome of taste and tradition.