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SPANISH
HAM STANDS
 There
are a few factors to take into consideration when choosing
your Spanish ham stand; these can include design, functionality
and price. All ham stands will accommodate full bone-in
hams. For heavier, larger hams a bigger stand is better
though to help maintain stability when carving. The most
common design of ham stand is the basic "jamonero",
found in most kitchens all over Spain. These models vary
in appearance but are generally made from pine and have
a two point clamping system - a spike on the base and a
large screw at the top for securing the top of the leg nearest
the hoof.
Progressing
further up the range ham stands typically become larger
in size, are more sturdy and will hold your ‘jamon’
more securely with a more substantial clamping system. As
mid range models these larger ham stands are usually made
from pine or laminated in a range of colours and boast chrome
effect fixtures which not only secure the ham more effectively
but also makes it a smart piece of kitchen equipment. ‘Double
clamping’ is a common feature with mid range ham stands
which means unlike more economical designs which hold the
leg from the top this system clamps the top of the leg from
both sides similar to a vice. This system prevents the ham
‘rocking’ and keeps it more stable when being
carved.
Rotating
models are further up the scale again, these stands are
large, usually with longer and wider bases to compensate
for the weight of the clamping system. Rotating ham stands
have a single neck and at the top is a circular swivel design,
the hoof of the ham goes through this and id secured both
by spikes on the inside of this design as well as a key
for tightening everything up. Many of these models also
have an adjustable base spike which can be slid backwards
or forwards making them ideal for smaller hams and also
longer Iberian hams which by their nature tend to be 6 –
8 inches longer than a Serrano ham. The main purpose of
this design is make turning the ham over much easier as
the hoof of the ham never leaves the clamp, it is simply
‘swiveled’ over where carving can then begin on
the other side of the leg.
 At
the very top of the range are designs that are used by the
professional and can regularly be seen at ham carving exhibitions
and other events throughout Spain. These ham stands truly
are a beautiful piece of functional kitchen furniture and
come hand crafted by artisan tradesmen. Stainless steel
and wood are usually present in most stands creating a subtle
blend of materials that work together in complete harmony.
Some of the finest examples are made by Don Paulino Pantaleon
who carves each base by hand using hardwood sourced from
the Ivory coast.
Professional
stands such as these are substantial in weight, sometimes
weighing up to 15kg which makes them very sturdy indeed
and also very safe, the less movement you have when ham
carving the better for both safety and achieving the best
ham slices. ‘Afinox’ are another company in Spain
well known for making some of the best ham stands in the
world. A patented design allows the carver to maneuver the
ham safely to whichever angle is most comfortable, with
bases cut from olive wood, siltstone, marble and stainless
steel the Afinox range has quickly gained a reputation as
being one of the most prolific in Spain.
Ultimately
when choosing a ham stand you will be searching for quality
at a good price and with ham stands ranging from 20 euros
to 1000 euros the choice is extensive. For the Spanish ham
enthusiast or for those who would be considering further
ham purchases in the future then a slightly larger, more
robust model will certainly be better value in the long
term. Basic models such as the ‘gondola’ model
(or simply ‘ham stand’) represent very good value
and are the model of choice for the everyday domestic kitchen
in Spain.
Key
things to consider:
- How
often will the stand be used?
- Will
the stand be used for large heavy hams?
- Is
the stand to be used professionally?
- Will
the stand also be on display?
- Budget
- Safety
As
a general rule big heavy hams prefer a big heavy ham stand,
smaller stands will struggle to clamp a large 9kg ham for
example, the leg will be off balance and although secured
the stand will probably move or slide on whichever surface
you place it on making carving unsafe. Smaller stands are
best suited to lighter front legs (paleta’s) or small
hams weighing around the 6.5 – 7.0kg mark. As mentioned
earlier Iberico hams are much more elongated than the standard
Serrano Ham so will also be best suited to a more substantial
stand, Iberian hams will be quite at home in more economical
models as well as the top of the range stands, if the base
on the stand is adjustable then this is ideal to accommodate
the extra length of the leg.
Ensuring
safety comes first is of the upmost importance when carving
ham, the ham knife works in tandem with the stand and is
razor sharp, having a firm steady base and a ham that remains
as still as possible is crucial to reducing accidents. Choosing
the correct ham stand best suited to your ham will not only
make carving a safer, more pleasurable experience but will
result in hours of happy ham carving.
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Copyright 2011 Orce Serrano Hams - www.orceserranohams.com
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