This is what you hear people say: “if you are looking for a good restaurant check out those that are frequented by Spaniards.” It seems true. Spaniards know about the culinary qualities in life. The word “tapas” doesn’t need any translation anymore. We are familiar with the small portions of squid, shrimps, cheese or... Ham.
One aspect of the ham ritual is the analysis of the quality of the ham. You will learn soon differences between ham from a male and a female pig and that the ‘black hoof’ (Jamon Iberico - Pata Negra) is categorized as the best ham there is. A piece of ham could easily cost you 200 euro’s. Perhaps for later you think (now).
But the main ritual around the ham is not the quality nor the price. It is about what I would call “tapas at home.”
Think for a moment that in Spain you do not invite people. You just show up or you don’t. There is no such thing as a planning of dates as for example in the Netherlands.But this does plant an issue. What do you do when someone visits your home and you are not prepared? Because that is the other side such spontaneous visits. You are prepared in Spain when you can offer visitors something to eat.
The solution is brought in by the Serrano ham. This is an entire leg of the pork that is mounted on a standard. And each day you cut some portion off the ham which you serve as a small “tapa” or for the occasion when you get an unexpected visit. In this way, you are always prepared.
Quality food is an important ingredient in the Spanish life. And the Serrano ham ritual is a significant part of it. Make sure you don’t miss it.
© 2006 Hans Bool
Hans Bool is the founder of Astor White a traditional management consulting company that offers online management tools. Have a look at some of our free management tools
Source: www.articlesbase.com
