How to use the rind of ham: Practical ideas

If you've ever wondered what to do with the rind of ham after cutting into delicious slices, you've come to the right place.

Although often discarded, the rind of ham is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor to your dishes and help you get the most out of every part of this culinary gem.

Why you shouldn't throw away the rind of ham

At first, you might think that the rind is just a residue, but this part of the Iberian ham contains great culinary benefits. The rind of the ham contains fat and skin that provide a great amount of flavour, making it an indispensable ally in the kitchen.

In fact, many cooks consider it a "grandma's secret" to enhance the flavor of stews and broths. Did you know that the rind can add an irresistible touch to soups or rice dishes?

5 ingenious ways to use the rind of ham

Here are five ideas that you can put into practice to make the most of ham rind in your daily life:

Homemade broths full of flavor

Adding ham rind to a broth is one of the most common uses. The fat in the rind will slowly dissolve, enriching the broth with a deep, delicious flavour. Perfect for winter soups or for making a base broth that you can then use in other recipes.

The most delicious stews and pottages

If you're preparing dishes like lentils or chickpeas, adding the ham rind during cooking will add a unique texture and intense flavour. Plus, the rind can be removed before serving if you prefer only its essence to remain on the plate.

Flavoring rice and paellas

Next time you prepare rice, try adding a piece of ham rind to the sofrito. This trick will not only enhance the flavour of the dish, but will also give the rice an incredible aroma as it cooks.

Your best ally for barbecues

If you have the opportunity to prepare a roast, do not hesitate to add the ham rind to the baking tray. The fat from the rind will melt and create a delicious sauce that will impregnate the meat with its unmistakable flavour.

Toast the crust for a crunchy snack

A different option is to toast the ham rind in the oven until it becomes crispy. This appetizer is ideal to accompany a good wine or simply to enjoy on its own, as an original and tasty snack.

How to preserve the rind of ham

It is important to properly store the rind of the ham to ensure that it maintains its flavour and quality. It is best to store it in the fridge, wrapped in cling film or in an airtight container, to prevent it from drying out. If you are not going to use it immediately, you can also freeze it without losing its properties, ready for when you need it.

Some frequently asked questions about ham rind

Can I eat the rind of the ham directly?
Although it is not common to eat the rind as is, it can be used to flavour dishes. If you decide to eat it straight, we recommend toasting it first to make it more palatable.

How can I tell if the bark is in good condition?
A rind in good condition should have a characteristic but not unpleasant smell. If you notice it is very hard or excessively dry, it is better to use it in stews or broths, where it can add flavour regardless of its texture.

Is it better to keep the bark in the refrigerator or freeze it?
If you plan to use the bark soon, store it in the refrigerator. To preserve it for longer, freezing it is the best option, as it will retain its properties and be ready for any recipe you need.