Description
Whole Cooked Ham: Italian Tradition in its Most Authentic Form
Whole cooked ham represents the excellence of Italian charcuterie, a product that combines centuries-old tradition and artisanal wisdom. Obtained from the thigh of pork processed in its entirety, this unbagged cured meat conquers with its delicate flavor and soft texture, making it perfect for the whole family.
Characteristics of Whole Cooked Ham
Our whole cooked ham is distinguished by:
- Selected raw material: exclusively Italian leg of pork
- Artisanal processing: manual deboning and controlled steaming
- Authentic flavor: sweet and mild taste, also ideal for children
- Perfect texture: soft and easily sliced
- Optimal storage: vacuum-packed to maintain freshness and properties
Nutritional Values per 100g
| Component | Value |
|---|---|
| Energy | 215 kcal |
| Protein | 19,8g |
| Total fat | 14,7g |
| – of which saturated | 5,10g |
| Carbohydrates | 0,2g |
| – of which sugars | 0,2g |
| Fiber | 2,6g |
| Sodium | Variable |
| Iron | ~10% of daily requirement |
Traditional Production Process
The making of whole cooked ham follows a rigorous process:
- Selection: choice of the best Italian pork legs
- Boning: manual removal of bone while maintaining muscle integrity
- Syringing: injection of brine with water, salt and natural flavorings
- Massage: even distribution of brine in tissues
- Molding: conferring the characteristic shape
- Steaming: slow process that preserves softness and flavor
- Cooling: controlled stabilization for 24 hours
- Packaging: vacuum-packed to ensure freshness and preservation
Detailed information taken from Levoni
Quality Categories
According to Italian regulations, whole cooked ham is classified into three categories:
High Quality Cooked Ham
- Humidity ≤ 76.5%
- At least 3 of the 4 identifiable muscle bundles
- Highest quality expression
Selected Cooked Ham
- Humidity ≤ 79.5%
- Intact muscle structure
- Excellent quality-price balance
Standard Cooked Ham
- Humidity ≤ 82%.
- Perfect for culinary preparations
Nutritional Benefits
Whole cooked ham offers numerous nutritional benefits:
- Noble protein: 20g per 100g, rich in essential amino acids such as leucine
- B vitamins: essential for energy metabolism
- Mineral salts: potassium, iron and phosphorus in significant amounts
- Low carbohydrate content: ideal for controlled diets
- Easily digestible: thanks to the steaming process
Storage and Durability
Vacuum Packed Whole Cooked Ham:
- Store in the refrigerator at 0-4°C
- Durability: up to 60 days from production
- After opening: consume within 5-7 days
Whole Open Cooked Ham:
- Wrap in food wrap
- Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator
- Ideal temperature: 4°C maximum
Culinary Uses
Whole cooked ham is extremely versatile:
Direct consumption:
- Thinly sliced for appetizers
- Knife cutting for tastings
- Pairing with cheeses and wines
Culinary preparations:
- Pasta cream, peas and ham
- Cordon bleu and rolls
- Savory pies and potato gateau
- Flatbreads and white pizzas
Gastronomic Pairings
With wines:
- Spicy red wines for high quality
- Fresh white wines for light preparations
- Pale ales for aperitifs
With cheeses:
- Scamorza and provolone cheese for cooking
- Cream cheese for mousse
- Grana Padano cheese for gratin
Available Formats
Whole cooked ham is available in different sizes:
- Whole: from about 6-9 kg
- Half: from about 3-4.5 kg
- Quarters: from about 1.5-2.5 kg
Why Choose Our Whole Cooked Ham
✅ Guaranteed quality: only selected Italian pigs
✅ Artisanal processing: respect for centuries-old traditions
✅ Total control of the supply chain: from the birth of the animal to the finished product
✅ Food safety: certified processes and full traceability
✅ Versatility: perfect for every eating occasion
✅ Nutritional value: noble proteins and essential minerals
