The ham carving board is an essential tool for cutting and serving Iberian ham. It is a long, sturdy board specifically designed to hold the ham securely while it is being sliced.
At César Nieto Group, we understand the importance of having the best ham carving board to enjoy your ham fully. That’s why we’re going to give you some tips on choosing the best one and how to place the ham on the board.
Features of the Ham Carving Board
The ham carving board is an indispensable tool for lovers of fine ham and also represents the craftsmanship and tradition behind this iconic product of Spanish cuisine. It symbolises care, attention, and respect for the quality and flavour of a well-sliced ham.
Design
The design of the ham carving board is intended to make the ham slicing process easier. It has a notch or holder at one end where the ham’s hoof is placed, allowing it to remain firm and stable during slicing. Some more sophisticated models may include a rotating system to help turn the ham without manually moving it.
Material
They are usually made from high-quality wood, such as oak or beech, due to their strength and durability. You can also find them in materials like stainless steel or durable plastics.
Shape and Size
Ham carving boards are long and narrow, specifically designed to hold the ham either vertically or horizontally, depending on the model. This makes slicing easier and allows for comfortable handling of the ham during the task.
Key Points in Choosing a Ham Carving Board
Choosing the best ham carving board depends on several key factors that should be considered to ensure its functionality and durability. Here are some tips from César Nieto on how to make the right choice:
- Non-slip Surface: Ensure the ham carving board has a surface that prevents the ham from slipping during slicing. This can be achieved with notches, anti-slip rubber, or special treatments on the wood.
- Securing System: Check that the board has a good system for securing the ham’s hoof. This ensures the ham remains stable and secure while being sliced.
- Stability and Design: Choose a board that is stable and has an aesthetically pleasing design. Often, ham carving boards are designed to complement the presentation of the ham on the table, so a good design can add aesthetic value to your display.
- Additional Accessories: Some boards come with accessories like ham knives, tongs, and sharpeners. These can be useful for having a complete set for the care and slicing of the ham.
- Brand Reputation: Consider the reputation and reviews of other users regarding the brand and specific model of the ham carving board you are considering. Brands known for their quality and tradition usually offer more durable and functional products.
- Price: It’s important to find a balance between quality and budget. It’s not always necessary to opt for the most expensive board, but make sure it meets your needs and expectations regarding quality and functionality.
How to Place the Ham on the Carving Board
Placing the ham on the carving board is a crucial step to ensure it is well-secured and stable during the slicing process. First, you need to make sure that the carving board is clean and dry before you start.
Then, place the carving board horizontally on a stable surface, such as a table or countertop. It’s important that the board does not slip during the process. At this point, decide whether you will slice the ham vertically or horizontally. Most of the time, the ham is placed with the hoof facing upwards and the wider part facing downwards.
After that, place the ham’s hoof into the holder or notch on the carving board. Make sure it fits securely to provide stability for the ham during slicing.
If the carving board has an adjustment or rotation mechanism, use it as needed to allow access to the ham from different angles without physically moving the board. Once the ham is correctly positioned and secured on the carving board, it is ready to start slicing using a ham knife.
In our online store at César Nieto, you can find the best ham carving boards and excellent Iberian ham to start enjoying its unique flavour and texture. You have everything you need for an incredible gastronomic experience. Visit us!
