Product Description

Prosciutto di Modena PDO is a raw, cured charcuterie product, obtained through the processing of fresh pig legs belonging to the Large White Italian and Landrace pure or crossbreeds, Duroc crossbreeds and other compatible breeds.

Production Area: The area of production of this ham corresponds to hillsides and valleys running along the hydrographic basin of the Panaro river, not exceeding 900 meters of altitude starting from the foothills. Prosciutto di Modena PDO is produced in 34 municipalities in the Province of Bologna, Modena and Reggio Emilia in the Region of Emilia-Romagna.

Appearance and Taste: Prosciutto di Modena PDO has a minimum weight of 15.4 pounds. The slice has a bright red color. The taste is savory but not salty, with a pleasant, sweet and intense fragrance.

Origins: The breeding of pigs in the shores of the Panaro River, in the Emilia-Romagna region, is dated back to the Bronze Age. The area of Modena (important city in that region) is considered as a reference in the processing of pig meat thanks to the ancient and rooted tradition of cured meat. In 1670, a list of kitchen supplies for Cardinal Rinaldo was found conserved amongst the papers of the ducal chambers at the House of Este (Italian princely dynasty) , in which there is a distinction between mountain ham and local hand-made ham.

Production: In the production process of the Prosciutto di Modena PDO the salting operations are repeated twice. Then, hams are left to rest for at least 60 days in special rooms with controlled temperature and humidity. The maturation period is 14-30 months long. Greasing takes place during this period, which involves the exposed part of the ham being covered with a paste of pork fat, salt, pepper and rice flour.

Gastronomy: Prosciutto di Modena PDO is served thin sliced to eat with bread or traditional “tigella” from Modena. This ham is perfect also to fill fresh pasta or to be eaten with melon or other fruits. If sliced, it has to be stored in the fridge.  Suggested Wine Pairings: Lambrusco