Huevos con torreznos

Fried Eggs with Crispy Fatback and Cured Ham

Extremadura is a paradise for lovers of pork products. The exquisite torreznos, or fatback from the iberico pig, is not available in the United States, but I have had good results making this dish wiht fatty bacon or an end cut of domestic fatback, which usually contains streaks of lean meat.

  • Serves 4

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups olive oil
  • 1/4 pound fatback with streaks of lean meat or fatty bacon, cut into large dice
  • 4 thin slices jamon serrano
  • 8 eggs at room temperature
  • Salt

Preparation

In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of the olive oil over high heat. Add the fatback and fry, turning constantly, for 5 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fatback to a dish and place in a low oven. Reserve the oil in the skillet.

Return the skillet to high heat. Add 2 slices of the jamon serrano and sauté, turning once, for 30 seconds on each side, or until the fat edging the ham glistens. Transfer to the dish holding the fatback. Repeat with the remaining two ham slices.

Heat 1 cup of the olive oil in another skillet over high heat. When the oil is hot, fry the eggs. When you finish cooking each egg, transfer it to a plate and keep warm in a low oven (2 eggs to a plate). As you fry the eggs, gradually replenish the frying oil with the remaining 5 tablespoons olive oil, adding a little before you fry each egg.

When you have finished cooking the eggs, season them with salt.

Distribute the crispy fatback and ham evenly among the places and serve immediately.

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See Also

Extremadura

Extremadura recipes: The Extremaduran countryside never ceases to amaze the visitor, with its dry plains, luxuriant pastures, mountains, marshes, meadows and fields.... In each area there are different products, the crops and livestock influencing the local dishes.

Jamon: There is nothing more Spanish than jamón serrano. This country ham is a national treasure shared in Spain by all walks of life. Cured for at least a year, it has a much deeper flavor firmer texture than its closest relateive, Italian prosciutto. Serve as a 'Tapa' with cheese and olives, or in your favorite Spanish recipe