Of all the charcuterie items you’ve ever heard of, ham is the one you’re probably most familiar with, sometimes probably even without even knowing it! In fact, it is possibly the one truly international cured meat, with different styles ranging from the prosciuttos of Italy to the jamons of Spain to the country hams of North America all the way to the Jinhua ham of China (one that is unfortunately forbidden from being imported).

Coming from the hind leg of the hog, ham can be placed in two basic categories: cooked or raw, or as we say in Italian cotto o crudo. But raw is, in this case, a misnomer. These are the cured hams that are arguably the most delicious way to enjoy the ham. Here at Via Umbria, we are proud to carry six different styles of ham. Two imported prosciutto crudos from the towns of Parma and San Daniele in Italy, after which they are named. On top of that, we are excited to introduce an amazing prosciutto crudo made here in Virginia, by a family business that has, and continues, to make Tuscan-style charcuterie in Tuscany: Terra di Siena. Right along with these are two smoked hams, a speck from Alto Adige/Südtirol in the very north of Italy and an aged country ham from southside Virginia. They vary in the woods they are smoked with but both are excellent sliced thin as with any prosciutto. And to round this out, we have a phenomenal prosciutto cotto that would make for an excellent sandwich. This is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to hams, and we are excited to keep on digging deeper in to the world of cured meats.

This is just the beginning. To learn more, and indulge in our delicious deli offerings, join Scott, our Salami Swami, at our Meat & Greet event on Wednesday, February 3rd, at 7pm. Nosh like a Norcino on charcuterie and pork-based dishes, and partake in conversation with fellow food lovers. For more information or to book your reservation visit us online or call us at (202) 333-3904.