Don’t know how to preserve ham bones? We know that they are of incalculable culinary value and can be used in a wide variety of recipes. However, in order to get the most out of them, it is essential to know how to preserve ham bones properly. Here at César Nieto Group we tell you how to do so in order to maintain their maximum flavour.

Why preserve ham bones?

The Iberian ham bone is a real culinary jewel. Its intense flavour and its ability to add depth to broths, stews, soups and stews make it a highly prized ingredient. It contains remains of attached meat, fat and marrow, which melt during cooking, adding an unmistakable and delicious flavour to your dishes.

Preserving these bones allows you to prolong the use of the ham even after all the meat has been cut off, and to reuse them in various preparations, such as ham stock, creams and purées or stews and casseroles.

Step by step on how to preserve ham bones

In order to enjoy ham bones for a long time, it is important to preserve them properly. Once you have learnt how to preserve ham bones, you can use them in the kitchen. Here we explain the different ways of doing this.

Preparing the ham bone

Before preserving the bone, it is advisable to carry out a basic cleaning to remove any excess fat or meat that may have stuck to it. So, if the bone has pieces of meat on it, cut them off and keep them aside for use in other recipes.

Also, although fat can add flavour, if there is too much, it can make the bone go rancid faster. Leave only a light layer of fat.

Chopping the ham bone

Depending on the size of the bone, it is advisable to cut it into pieces before preserving it. This will make it easier to use later, as you can use only as much as you need without having to defrost the whole bone. Use a strong knife or, if necessary, a special bone saw. Divide the bone into several small pieces, about 10-15 centimetres long.

How to store ham bones in the freezer

The most effective and practical way to preserve ham bones is to freeze them. Frozen ham bones can last up to 6 months without losing their properties, allowing you to use them at different times of the year.

Wrap each piece of bone in cling film or in individual freezer bags. If you prefer, you can use vacuum bags, which guarantee better preservation. It is advisable to label the bags with the date you freeze them, so that you can keep track of how long they have been in the freezer.

Cold storage

If you don’t want to freeze the ham bones because you plan to use them soon, you can keep them in the fridge, although this is a short-term option. Here’s how to do it:

• Wrap the bones in cling film or aluminium foil to prevent them from absorbing odours from other foods in the fridge. Place them in the coldest part of the fridge.
• Storage time: In the refrigerator, ham bones can be kept fresh for 3 to 5 days. If you do not use them during this time, it is best to freeze them to prevent them from spoiling.

Dehydration or drying

Another way to preserve ham bones is to dehydrate them. Although not as common, this technique allows them to be stored at room temperature for a longer period of time.

To dehydrate the bones, you can either use a food dehydrator or do it in the oven at a low temperature (about 80-90°C) for several hours. Once the bones are completely dry, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

What to do with ham bones?

Ham bones are a real culinary treasure. After enjoying the slices of ham, these bones still have a lot to offer, as they contain intense flavours and can add a delicious touch to many dishes. If you are wondering what you can do with the ham bones, here are some ideas and recipes that will allow you to make the most of them.

Ham stock

The most popular use for ham bones is to make a homemade stock, which you can use as a base for many recipes. The bone, with the remains of meat and fat attached, provides a deep flavour that enriches any preparation. This stock is perfect as a base for dishes such as paellas, risottos, stews or as a soup stock.

Ham soup

The broth made from ham bones can also be transformed into a delicious ham soup. Just add a few extra ingredients to give it body and make it a complete dish.

Stews and stews

Ham bones are an essential ingredient in traditional dishes such as cocido madrileño or chickpea stew. During slow cooking, the bone releases its flavours, enriching the broth and adding depth to the dish.

To do this, place the ham bone with the pulses (chickpeas, lentils) and meats (black pudding, chorizo, bacon) from the beginning of the cooking process. Let the bone release its flavour while the dish simmers.

Stews and casseroles

Stews and casseroles benefit greatly from the addition of a ham bone during cooking. This ingredient gives a deep, salty kick, perfect for meats and sauces.

Whatever your use, preserving ham bones is a great way to get the most out of every part of this product. The next time you finish a leg of ham, don’t throw the bones away, save them and enjoy their flavour in your stews, soups and sauces. Visit our César Nieto shop and start tasting the highest quality Iberian ham on the market now!