Are you a fan of pork and looking to experience the best that it can offer?
Look no further than Jinhua ham, a type of dry-cured ham with deep, earthy flavors that will leave you in a state of sheer meat bliss.
While it may be a bit overwhelming at first, the textured, varied, and complex flavors will wash over you in wave after wave.
But where can you find this delicacy in Singapore?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the best places to buy Jinhua ham in Singapore, so you can experience the ultimate pork indulgence.
Where To Buy Jinhua Ham In Singapore?
If you’re looking to buy Jinhua ham in Singapore, there’s only one shop that has been approved by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) for sale.
This shop offers both whole legs and slices of Jinhua ham, so you can choose the option that suits your needs.
Located conveniently in Singapore, this shop is the perfect place to satisfy your craving for this delicious delicacy.
So, if you’re looking to experience the best that pork can offer, head to this shop and indulge in the rich, earthy flavors of Jinhua ham.
What Is Jinhua Ham?
Jinhua ham is a type of dry-cured ham that originates from the city of Jinhua in the Zhejiang province of eastern China. This ham is made by salting and curing the hind leg of a pig with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. The curing process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the desired flavor and texture.
Jinhua ham is highly prized for its rich, savory flavor and tender texture. It is often used in Chinese cuisines to add depth and complexity to soups, stews, and braised dishes. The ham can also be sliced thinly and served as a cold appetizer or snack.
Jinhua ham has a unique aroma and taste that sets it apart from other types of cured meats. It has a slightly sweet and salty flavor with hints of smokiness and umami. The texture is firm yet tender, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes it a true delicacy.
The History And Tradition Of Jinhua Ham
Jinhua ham is a type of dry-cured ham that has its origins in ancient China. It was first made by preserving pork with salt when there was no cold storage available. The preservation process was crucial in the past, but nowadays, Jinhua ham has excellent storage stability. According to Jinhua ham masters, it can be stored for at least 5 years under natural conditions, and hams stored for 2 to 3 years are the best in flavor quality.
Jinhua ham is named after the city of Jinhua in Zhejiang province, where it is produced. It is made from the hind legs of a rare and expensive pig breed called liangtouwu, which has been known for 1,600 years. This pig breed is also called “panda pig” because of its black and white patterns. The high fat content and small size of the liangtouwu make it a perfect choice for making Jinhua ham.
The traditional process of making Jinhua ham involves around 36 to 80 steps, including trimming, salting, soaking, washing, drying, shaping, fermenting, and smelling. After cleaning the ham leg, it is salted six times, with each salting process taking around 25-35 days. Then it is placed in a cold and dark room for 6-8 months to develop its typical aroma and flavor. The salting process traditionally takes place in winter, and the legs are washed and hung to dry in January.
Jinhua ham has been used in Chinese cuisines for centuries to flavor stewed and braised foods as well as for making stocks and broths of many Chinese soups. It was awarded first prize in the 1915 Panama International Merchandise Exhibition. In Jinhua city itself, the history of ham processing can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Jinhua Ham has been inscribed on the list of Zhejiang’s intangible cultural heritage items and designated a geographical indication (GI) product by the National Intellectual Property Administration.
What Makes Jinhua Ham Unique?
Jinhua ham is a type of specialty dry-cured ham that is unique to the city of Jinhua in Zhejiang province, China. What sets Jinhua ham apart from other types of ham is the rare and expensive pig breed called liangtouwu that is used to make it. This breed, also known as “panda pig” due to its black and white patterns, has been around for 1,600 years and is beloved for its high fat content and small size.
The production process of Jinhua ham is also what makes it unique. It involves a staggering 36 procedures, including trimming, salting, soaking, washing, drying, shaping, fermenting, and smelling. The ham leg is salted six times over a period of 25-35 days between each process of salting. After this, it is placed in a cold and dark room for 6-8 months to develop its typical aroma and flavor.
Jinhua ham has an attractive color, unique flavor, and bamboo leaf-like shape. Its rose-like muscle, golden yellow skin, and pure white fat make it one of the most preferred items for food decoration and flavor enhancement in Chinese cuisine. In fact, Jinhua ham has won numerous awards and was even awarded first prize in the 1915 Panama International Merchandise Exhibition.
How To Select And Store Jinhua Ham
When selecting Jinhua ham, it is important to look for quality. Avoid buying from supermarkets as they tend to offer lower quality products. Instead, try looking for Jinhua ham in local wet markets or specialty stores that sell local dried meats. Ask the vendors for recommendations and they will be able to point you in the right direction.
When it comes to storing Jinhua ham, it is important to note that it has incomparable storage stability. The past experience has shown that it could be stored for at least 5 years under natural conditions, and hams stored for 2 to 3 years are the best in flavor quality. However, if you’re not planning on storing it for that long, it’s still important to properly store it to ensure its freshness.
Once you have purchased your Jinhua ham, store it in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. It is best to wrap it in paper or cloth and then place it in an airtight container. This will help prevent moisture from getting to the ham and causing it to spoil.
When you’re ready to use your Jinhua ham, simply remove it from storage and let it come to room temperature before using. It can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stir-fries, or even enjoyed on its own with a cold beer or glass of wine.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Jinhua ham stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Cooking With Jinhua Ham: Recipe Ideas And Tips
Jinhua ham is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. Here are some recipe ideas and tips for cooking with Jinhua ham:
1. Jinhua Ham Soup: This classic Chinese soup is made by simmering Jinhua ham with chicken, ginger, and other aromatics. The result is a rich and flavorful broth that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day.
2. Fried Rice with Jinhua Ham and Cabbage: This dish combines the umami-rich flavor of Jinhua ham with the sweetness of cabbage and the savory goodness of fried rice. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Jinhua Ham Omelette: Add some diced Jinhua ham to your next omelette for a delicious twist on this breakfast classic. The salty, savory flavor of the ham pairs perfectly with eggs and cheese.
4. Jinhua Ham and Mushroom Stir-Fry: This quick and easy stir-fry is packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of Jinhua ham and earthy mushrooms. Serve it over rice for a satisfying meal in minutes.
When cooking with Jinhua ham, it’s important to remember that a little goes a long way. The flavor of the ham is quite strong, so you don’t need to use too much to achieve the desired effect. Additionally, be sure to trim off any excess fat before using the ham in your recipes, as this can make the dish too greasy. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and cooking techniques to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious ingredient.