Discover the traditional method of preparing Njeguški Pršut, the famous dry-cured ham from the village of Njeguši in Montenegro. Learn how to recreate this delicious, smoky, and rich-tasting ham at home, following authentic techniques that have been passed down through generations. Perfect for charcuterie boards, sandwiches, or as a gourmet snack.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole pork leg (with bone)

- 2-3 kg coarse sea salt

- 1 kg sugar (optional)

- 2-3 kg pepper (optional)

- Fresh bay leaves (optional)

- Fresh rosemary (optional)

- Wood for smoking (beech, oak, or other hardwoods)

Preparation Steps:

Preparing the Meat:

  - Clean and trim the pork leg, leaving a thin layer of fat. Ensure the skin is intact.

  - Make small incisions near the bone to allow better salt penetration.

Salting:

  - Rub the entire pork leg with coarse sea salt, ensuring every part is covered. Optionally, mix in sugar and pepper for added flavor.

  - Place the pork leg in a wooden or plastic container, cover it with more salt, and let it rest in a cool, dry place (3-6°C) for 3-4 weeks. Ensure the pork leg is entirely submerged in salt during this time. Turn the leg occasionally.

Pressing:

  - After the salting period, rinse off excess salt. Place the pork leg under a press or heavy weights for 1-2 weeks to remove excess moisture.

Smoking:

  - Hang the pork leg in a smoking chamber. Smoke the ham using beech, oak, or other hardwoods for 3-6 weeks, depending on the desired smokiness. Maintain a low, consistent temperature during smoking (12-15°C).

Drying and Aging:

  - After smoking, hang the ham in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry place for 6 months to 1 year. The ham will continue to dry and develop its characteristic flavor during this time.

Serving:

  - Once the ham has aged to your preference, slice it thinly and serve. Njeguški Pršut is traditionally enjoyed as part of a charcuterie board or paired with cheese, olives, and bread.

Notes:

  - The curing process is delicate and requires patience. Ensure consistent temperature and humidity throughout the process for the best results.

  - Njeguški Pršut can be stored for several months if kept in a cool, dry place.

Nutritional Values

Pork Leg

- Calories: 242 kcal

- Protein: 30g

- Fat: 15g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Sodium: 60mg

Benefits:

- High in Protein: Essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.

- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Provides essential nutrients such as B vitamins (especially B12, B6, and niacin), zinc, and iron, which are crucial for energy production, immune function, and red blood cell formation.

Sea Salt

- Sodium: 38,000mg

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain fluid balance and proper nerve and muscle function.

- Mineral Content: Contains trace minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which can be beneficial in small amounts.

Note: Excessive salt intake can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure, so it should be used in moderation.

Sugar (Optional)

- Calories: 387 kcal

- Carbohydrates: 100g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits:

- Energy Source: Provides a quick source of energy, although it should be consumed in moderation.

Note: Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain and other health problems like diabetes.

Pepper (Optional)

- Calories: 255 kcal

- Protein: 10g

- Fat: 3g

- Carbohydrates: 64g

- Sodium: 0mg

Benefits:

- Rich in Antioxidants: Contains compounds like piperine that have antioxidant properties.

- Digestive Health: May aid in digestion and stimulate the production of digestive enzymes.

Bay Leaves (Optional)

- Calories: 313 kcal

- Protein: 7g

- Fat: 8g

- Carbohydrates: 74g

- Sodium: 17mg

Benefits:

- Digestive Aid: May help with digestive issues and relieve symptoms like bloating and indigestion.

- Rich in Vitamins: Contains vitamins A, C, and B6, which are important for overall health.

Rosemary (Optional)

- Calories: 131 kcal

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 5g

- Carbohydrates: 20g

- Sodium: 6mg

Benefits:

- Antioxidant Properties: Contains compounds like rosmarinic acid that can help protect cells from damage.

- Anti-inflammatory: May have anti-inflammatory effects and support digestion.

Wood for Smoking (Beef, Oak, etc.)

Nutritional Values: Not applicable (used for flavoring)

Benefits:

- Flavor Enhancement: Adds a distinctive smoky flavor to the ham, which can enhance the overall taste experience.

These ingredients, when used in the traditional preparation of Njeguški Pršut, contribute to its rich flavor and nutritional profile.