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How to use ham bones: ideas for making the most of them
We don't realize the potential of the jamón bone, and the flavor we lose by throwing it away, thinking that because it's just a bone it's useless. In reality, they have great culinary potential.
If you've bought a good jamón de Teruel and you enjoy traditional Spanish food, we can use the bones to make the base of many dishes and relive that classic flavor.
Plus, this way we'll learn how to preserve a ham bone without it losing flavor.
Many people don't know the necessary information about whether it can be frozen, how long it lasts in the refrigerator, or what the best way is to store it without losing flavor.
Dishes with lots of flavor
Lentils cooked with a ham bone are one of the best things in Spanish cuisine. This ingredient adds depth and a touch that enhances the flavor of every spoonful.
We can also use ham bones in other dishes, such as stews or chickpea stews.
And you don't even need to use the whole ham; just a piece of the bone will give that flavor to any dish.
And if that's not enough, and you find that your bone still has bits of ham, you can crumble it at the end of cooking and add it to the stew to use absolutely everything.
How can we use leftovers to make croquettes?
When we boil our ham bone, we often find bits of ham stuck to it.
Don't throw them away! They're perfect for making delicious homemade ham croquettes.
Simply remove the meat from the bone, chop it finely, and mix it with a creamy béchamel sauce.
The result? Delicious croquettes, ideal for not wasting a single bit of ham.
Preserving ham bones
One of the most common mistakes is leaving bones at room temperature for too long, when ideally they should be wrapped in cling film or stored in airtight bags to preserve them properly.
They can keep in good condition for a few days in the refrigerator, especially if they have fat or still have some ham attached. However, if you know you won't be using them soon, it's best to freeze them.
Can ham bones be frozen?
Yes, it's also worth noting that this is one of the best preservation methods. Frozen ham bones retain their flavor much better for months.
To make the most of it and use only what you need, it's best to divide it into pieces and freeze them in pieces. And it's important to note that they don't need to be thawed whole before use; you can add them directly to your stew or broth.
How long do ham bones last in the refrigerator?
They usually last between 5 and 7 days when properly refrigerated.
Can they be frozen?
Yes, and they keep for several months without losing flavor.
What recipes can we use them for?
Stews, rice dishes, broths, creams, croquettes and lentils.
Is the bone washed before cooking?
Yes, it is highly recommended to rinse it lightly to remove excess impurities or salt.
Does the ham bone add a lot of flavor?
Too much, and one of the most used ingredients in Spanish cuisine.
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