Are you a fan of Chinese cuisine?
Have you ever tried Jinhua ham, the delicious dry-cured ham named after the city of Jinhua in Zhejiang province, China?
This specialty ham is used to flavor a variety of dishes, from stews and braised foods to soups and broths.
In fact, it was even awarded first prize in the 1915 Panama International Merchandise Exhibition!
If you’re wondering where to buy Jinhua ham, look no further.
We’ve got you covered with the only SFA-approved Jinhua ham available for sale in Singapore.
So why not add some authentic Chinese flavor to your next meal with this delectable ham?
Where To Buy Jinhua Ham?
If you’re looking to buy Jinhua ham, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s available for sale in Singapore.
However, it’s important to note that not all Jinhua ham is created equal. Our Jin Hua Ham is the only one in Singapore that has been approved by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) for sale.
This means that you can trust the quality and safety of our Jinhua ham, which is produced in the city of Jinhua in Zhejiang province, China.
You can purchase our SFA-approved Jinhua ham online or at select specialty food stores in Singapore.
So why settle for anything less than the best when it comes to this delicious Chinese delicacy? Choose our SFA-approved Jinhua ham for your next culinary adventure and taste the authentic flavors of China.
What Is Jinhua Ham?
Jinhua ham is a type of dry-cured ham that originates from the city of Jinhua in Zhejiang province, China. It is a specialty meat product that is manually processed by Jinhua ham masters using traditional techniques that have been developed over a thousand years.
The ham is made from the hind legs of a local pig breed called liangtouwu, which is known for its high fat content and small size. The pig breed has been around for 1,600 years and is affectionately called “panda pig” due to its black and white patterns.
To produce Jinhua ham, a whopping 36 procedures (and up to 80 according to some sources) are necessary. These procedures include trimming, salting, soaking, washing, drying, shaping, fermenting, and smelling. The salting process is done six times over a period of 25-35 days between each process. After the salting process is complete, the ham leg is placed in a cold and dark room for 6-8 months to develop its typical aroma and flavor.
Jinhua ham is highly prized in Chinese cuisine and is used to flavor stewed and braised foods as well as for making stocks and broths of many Chinese soups. It was even awarded first prize in the 1915 Panama International Merchandise Exhibition.
If you want to experience the authentic flavors of Jinhua ham, it’s important to choose a trusted source like our SFA-approved Jinhua ham.
The History And Cultural Significance Of Jinhua Ham
Jinhua ham is not just a type of dried-cured ham, but it is a significant part of Chinese cuisine and culture. The ham has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient China, and it has been an important part of the daily life and traditions of local Chinese people for generations.
The traditional processing technology of Jinhua ham is a gem of ancient Chinese wisdom and meat processing experience. It is a good reference to the development of the meat industry and worthy of deep research to fully understand the secrets behind it. The ham is made from the meat of a locally-bred species with black skin on the head and buttocks, known as the Jinhua pig. This breed has thin skin and tender meat, making it perfect for producing high-quality ham.
The process of making Jinhua ham is a complex one that requires great skill and patience. Traditionally, the ham is preserved in November in Jinhua. After several other processing measures, including salting, soaking, washing, drying, shaping, and ripening, and about half a year of fermentation, the ham can be put on the market.
Jinhua ham has had a great impact on the development of the meat industry in the world. It was awarded first prize in the 1915 Panama International Merchandise Exhibition, which helped to popularize it globally. Today, it is used in Chinese cuisines to flavor stewed and braised foods as well as for making the stocks and broths of many Chinese soups.
In Jinhua city, there is a street dedicated to ham shops called Qingnian Road. It is one of the oldest such streets in town and has been home to many families who have been making hams for generations. These families have preserved the traditional methods of making Jinhua ham, passing down their knowledge from one generation to another.
How To Use Jinhua Ham In Cooking
Jinhua ham is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add depth and complexity of flavor. Here are some ideas for incorporating Jinhua ham into your cooking:
1. Soups and Stocks: Jinhua ham can be used to infuse chicken or pork stock with its unique flavor. Simply blanch the ham with hot water to remove excess oil, then add it to the pot with your other ingredients. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Fried Rice: Add diced Jinhua ham to your fried rice for a savory twist on this classic dish. Sauté the ham with garlic, cabbage, and fish sauce, then add in blanched fresh shrimp and cooked rice. Season with concentrated chicken or scallop stock, and toss everything together until well mixed.
3. Meatballs: Mix ground chicken or pork with grated ginger and lemon zest, then blend in some crushed semi-firm tofu if desired. Form the mixture into small meatballs and cook them in Jinhua ham-infused chicken stock until fully cooked through.
4. Sandwiches: Thinly slice Jinhua ham and layer it onto a sandwich for an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, eat it plain as a snack with a bit of beer or wine.
Remember, when buying Jinhua ham, it’s important to look for quality sources. Avoid supermarket hams that are overly salty, and instead ask around at local wet markets or specialty food stores for recommendations. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy the rich, complex flavors of this delicious Chinese delicacy in your own home cooking.
Where To Buy SFA-approved Jinhua Ham In Singapore
If you’re looking to buy SFA-approved Jinhua ham in Singapore, there are a few options available to you.
Firstly, you can purchase it online through our website or other trusted online retailers. This is a convenient option as you can have it delivered straight to your doorstep.
Alternatively, you can visit select specialty food stores in Singapore that carry our SFA-approved Jinhua ham. These stores have been carefully selected for their commitment to quality and authenticity, so you can trust that you’re getting the real deal.
When purchasing Jinhua ham, it’s important to look out for the SFA approval stamp to ensure that you’re getting a safe and high-quality product.
So whether you’re a seasoned chef or a food enthusiast looking to explore new flavors, our SFA-approved Jinhua ham is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
Tips For Storing And Handling Jinhua Ham At Home
Once you’ve purchased your Jinhua ham, it’s important to store and handle it properly to ensure its quality and safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Store in the refrigerator: Like other cured meats, Jinhua ham should be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap (such as Saran wrap) to prevent exposure to air and moisture. Avoid using loose plastic bags as gases can build up and change the flavor of the ham.
2. Freezer storage: If you want to store Jinhua ham for a longer period of time, you can also freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
3. Serving size: When serving Jinhua ham, it’s best to slice it thinly and serve at room temperature. This will allow the flavors to fully develop and give you the best tasting experience.
4. Avoid overcooking: Jinhua ham is already fully cooked, so avoid overcooking it or exposing it to high heat for too long as this can dry out the meat and affect its flavor.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Jinhua ham safely and deliciously for weeks or even months to come.
Alternatives To Jinhua Ham For Those With Dietary Restrictions
For those with dietary restrictions, Jinhua ham may not be an option due to its high sodium content or other factors. Fortunately, there are alternatives that can be used in recipes that call for this specialty ham.
One option is to use a dry-cured raw ham, such as prosciutto, Spanish jamón, pancetta, or German speck. These hams have a similar texture and flavor profile to Jinhua ham and can be used as a substitute in recipes.
Another option is to use a different type of cured meat altogether. For example, if you’re looking for a smokier flavor, you might try using smoked bacon or ham hocks. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a lower sodium option, you could use turkey bacon or ham.
It’s important to note that while these substitutes may not have the exact same flavor as Jinhua ham, they can still add depth and complexity to your dishes. Experiment with different options to find the one that works best for your taste preferences and dietary needs.
