where to buy jinhua ham

A Guide to Purchasing Authentic Jinhua Ham, the Centuries-Old Chinese Delicacy

Jinhua ham holds an eminent place among Chinese delicacies with a history stretching back over a thousand years. Also known as Jinhua dried ham or Jinhua Xuanwei ham, this specialty pork product hails from Jinhua City in China’s coastal Zhejiang province. Prized for its deep umami flavor and chewy texture, Jinhua ham enjoys fame both in China and abroad.

But due to its artisanal production and status as a protected geographical indication product, authentic Jinhua ham can be difficult to find outside of China. This guide will teach you how to identify and purchase genuine Jinhua ham.

An Introduction to Jinhua Ham

Jinhua ham traces its origins to medieval China. The ham was first produced during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) as a way to preserve pork for traveling soldiers. Its creation is attributed to a scholar who presented the Emperor with the specially cured ham, which was christened “huo tui” or “fire leg” for its reddish-brown hue.

Modern techniques for producing Jinhua ham were standardized in the 1920s. The ham is made exclusively in Jinhua City using traditional, time-honored methods. It receives its distinctive flavor from a months-long curing and aging process.

By Chinese law, only hams made in Jinhua City can receive the designation “Jinhua ham.” This geographical indication status helps regulate quality. Much like Champagne or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, the authentic product must come from the designated region.

Characteristics of Genuine Jinhua Ham

When shopping for Jinhua ham, it helps to know the hallmarks of the real thing:

• A rectangular shape with rounded edges modeled after a bamboo leaf

• A dark red color, sometimes speckled with white fat

• A compact, dense texture yet sliced fairly thinly

• An aroma described as rich, intense, and meaty

• A flavor profile balanced between smoky, salty, and subtly sweet

• The designation “Jinhua Ham” on the packaging

Anything labeled simply “Chinese ham” isn’t the same as authentic Jinhua ham. Always check for the proper geographical labeling.

Where to Buy Jinhua Ham in the United States

Due to import restrictions, true Jinhua ham unfortunately remains unavailable in the U.S. However, some alternatives exist:

• Chinese or Asian specialty grocery stores may carry dried hams made in the Jinhua style but produced elsewhere in China. While not authentic Jinhua ham, these may emulate the general flavor profile.

• Online specialty food importers like Sun Food Trading offer dried cooked hams from the “Jinhua” brand Jin Hua Meat Production Company. However, note that these hams are produced in Sichuan Province, not Jinhua City.

• Restaurants that specialize in Zhejiang-style Chinese cuisine may feature dishes made with imported Jinhua ham. This gives you a chance to sample the ham’s unique flavor.

While difficult to find in the States, you can get a taste of Jinhua ham by trying these options. Short of visiting China, they offer the closest approximations available domestically. Just be aware that you won’t find certified authentic Jinhua ham.

Purchasing Jinhua Ham in Hong Kong and Asia

Located just a province over from Zhejiang, Hong Kong provides one of the best opportunities to purchase legitimate Jinhua ham outside of Mainland China. Hong Kong is exempt from the mainland’s import bans, allowing it access to certified Jinhua ham.

In Hong Kong, visit traditional Chinese markets like Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium. High-end food shops and gourmet Chinese markets also frequently stock Jinhua ham imported straight from the source. Prices range from around $50 to $150 HKD for a 1-2 pound piece.

Elsewhere in Asia like Singapore, Taiwan and Malaysia, Jinhua ham is also more widely available thanks to greater proximity and fewer trade restrictions. Check shops specializing in imported Chinese goods. Travelers visiting these regions may want to bring some treasured Jinhua ham back home.

Shopping for Jinhua Ham in Mainland China

For the authentic experience, head straight to the source and shop for Jinhua ham in China itself. While Zhejiang Province is obviously the ideal place, Jinhua ham can be found throughout the mainland.

In Jinhua City, visit the Jinhua Ham Museum’s gift shop, which sells certified local brands like Xuanwei and Wangshi. High-end Chinese supermarkets also carry a wide selection. Expect to pay around ¥200-300 RMB ($29-43 USD) per 500g.

When purchasing Jinhua ham in China, scrutinize the label. Confirm it is produced in Jinhua City proper, not a nearby province. Also look for the standard number “GB/T 22107” indicating certified geographical indication status. This guarantees you’re getting the real deal.

How to Store Jinhua Ham

Once purchased, proper storage is key to preserving your precious Jinhua ham. Follow these expert tips:

• Keep the ham in its original packaging or wrap in plastic to retain moisture. Never freeze, as this ruins the texture.

• Store in the refrigerator, ideally in a ham holder or on the bottom shelf. The constant cool temperature preserves freshness.

• If the ham dries out, steam briefly before eating to restore moisture.

• Once sliced, wrap tightly in plastic and consume within a few days for best quality.

With appropriate care, an unsliced whole Jinhua ham holds 8-12 months in the fridge. Practice proper storage and enjoy nibbling this Chinese delicacy over many months.

Cooking with Jinhua Ham

Thanks to its intensely savory, salty flavor, Jinhua ham is best used as a seasoning rather than eaten alone. Here are some tips for incorporating it into dishes:

• Dice or shred very small amounts to add umami depth to fried rice, noodles, or stir fries.

• Simmer slices in broths or hot pots to impart flavor. Remove before serving.

• Steam or poach chicken, fish, or vegetables and top with thin ham slices.

• Add ham when making claypot rice, letting the rice absorb the ham’s aroma.

The key is using Jinhua ham judiciously as you would a prized seasoning like aged cheese. Let its savoriness elevate other ingredients.

The Bottom Line

Genuine Jinhua ham is a Chinese delicacy with centuries of culinary history behind it. While difficult to source in the West, it can be worth seeking out for its unique flavor and texture. Look for it in Chinatowns worldwide, on travels to Asia, or on a food pilgrimage to China. Treat this treasured ham as you would a pricey truffle or bottle of vintage wine.