Differences between Iberian Ham and Shoulder

When I was little, there were a pair of twins and a pair of twin girls in my class. The girls were easy to tell apart, but the boys... it took years for the teachers to be able to tell them apart. It was also very funny because when you asked them, don't you have anything that makes you different? They would say: yes, I have a mole in the middle left part of my forehead and he on the right. So, in addition to seeing them as the same, you had to stop and think which one was on the right and which one was on the left. It was all very complicated.

The fact is that one day at the convent we ended up talking about this and we came to the conclusion that there are many things (or people) that are very similar and difficult to distinguish from each other but that in reality have more differences than we think: a crocodile and an alligator, a seal and a sea lion, mint and spearmint, Natalie Portman and Keira Knightley, Frodo and Harry Potter.

And, obviously, Iberian ham and Iberian shoulder. The questions of the century: where are we going, who are we, what exactly is the difference between ham and shoulder, which is better, which will I like more, which suits me better, omelette with or without onion...

If you also have these doubts, keep reading and you will see what the essential differences are between Iberian ham and Iberian shoulder. This way you can decide what best suits what you want and you will receive your dream product at home. I imagine it must be something like trying on a pair of trousers and finding that they fit you perfectly, tight but not constricting, the right length, with nothing hanging out... I imagine, I've already gotten used to it.

What is the difference between ham and shoulder?

Both products come from the Iberian pig, but each has unique characteristics depending on its anatomical origin. That is, they depend on which part of the pig they correspond to:

• Iberian ham : comes from the hind legs of the animal. These are longer and larger, which directly influences its size, weight and performance.
• Iberian shoulder : obtained from the front legs, which are smaller and more compact, with a different proportion of meat and bone.

Key differences between Iberian ham and shoulder

Size and weight

• Iberian ham : It can reach a length of up to 90 cm and weigh over 8 kg. It is perfect if there are a lot of people at home, if it is a special occasion, or if there is a big celebration such as a wedding or communion.
• Iberian shoulder : smaller in size, reaching around 75 cm and its maximum weight around 6 kg. It is the ideal product if you are few or if it will take you longer to eat it.

Taste and texture

• Iberian ham : stands out for its juicy and soft texture, with more mellow and complex flavours thanks to its abundant veins of intramuscular fat.
• Iberian shoulder : offers a more intense and uniform flavour, ideal for those looking for a more robust and pronounced taste.

Performance

• Iberian ham : it provides more meat due to its thinner bone and lower external fat content. That is, in proportion, you get more product than from a shoulder.
• Iberian shoulder : although it contains less edible meat due to the predominance of the shoulder blade, it is still a delicious and affordable option.

Healing time

The curing process directly affects the flavor and texture of these products:

• Iberian ham : requires between 15 and 35 months, depending on quality and size.
• Iberian shoulder : logically, being smaller, it has a shorter curing period, between 12 and 24 months, which also affects its final price.

Ham vs. shoulder. Which to choose?

The choice between both products will depend on your needs and preferences:

• Iberian ham : perfect if you are looking for a larger quantity of meat, soft textures and complex flavours. Ideal for large gatherings or gourmet recipes.

• Iberian shoulder : More economical, with an intense and uniform flavour. It is the perfect option for daily consumption or smaller events.

If you still have doubts, you can always buy one of each and choose or ask us. The second option, besides being cheaper, is more fun, because we are very nice. At Monjamón we are here to help you choose the perfect product. Visit our online store to buy Iberian shoulder and discover our selection of Iberian hams and shoulders. Your palate will thank you!

Can you spot any more differences? Let us know in the comments!