Lacón facts for kids

Lacón is a special type of dried ham from Spain. It's made from the front legs, or shoulders, of a pig. Think of it like a delicious, cured meat that's very popular in Spanish cooking!

People have been enjoying lacón for a long time. It's even been written about in books and documents since the 1600s!

What is Lacón Galego?

The most famous type is called Lacón galego, which comes from a region in Spain called Galicia. This special ham has a unique status called a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication). This means that to be called Lacón galego, it must be made in Galicia, from pigs raised and processed there. It's a way to protect the quality and tradition of this specific food.

Unlike some other hams that use the whole leg, Lacón galego is made only from the shoulder of the pig.

Pigs Used for Lacón

To make lacón, specific types of pigs are used. These include breeds like the Celtic, Large White, Landrace, or Duroc pigs. The way these pigs are fed is also very important for the final product!

There are two main types of lacón, depending on what the pigs eat:

• Traditional Lacón Galego: This type is made from pigs that have eaten only natural foods for at least the last three months before they are ready. Their diet includes things like acorns, cereals, chestnuts, and other plant-based foods. This special diet gives the ham a unique flavor.
• Lacón Galego: This type comes from pigs that have been fed special foods approved by the people who oversee lacón production. These approved foods are given to the pigs right up until they are ready.

It's important to know that certain foods, like oils and fish products, are never allowed in the pigs' diet for making lacón. This helps keep the quality and taste consistent.

Images for kids

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  Lacón

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  Lacón con patacas e grelos (lacón with boiled potatoes and turnip greens)

See also

In Spanish: Lacón Gallego para niños