Tumaca Bread with Ham

Tumaca bread, also known as pan tumaca, is a classic recipe of the Spanish cuisine, especially popular in Catalonia. This simple, yet deeply satisfying dish is based on the quality of its ingredients: bread, ripened tomatoes, garlic, extra virgin olive oil from Spain, and Serrano ham. The extra virgin olive oil from Spain, with its richness and complexity, brings a unique flavor that complements the saltiness of the Iberian ham perfectly. Here is a recipe that celebrates these Mediterranean flavors with precision and elegance.

How to prepare pan tumaca with ham and extra virgin olive oil step by step

1. Toast the bread: Pre-heat your oven to 390 °F  (200 °C ) or use a toaster to toast the bread slices until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can grill them to add a subtle smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the tomato: Rub half of a tomato over the surface of each slice of toasted bread, allowing the tomato pulp and juices to soak into the bread. The amount of tomato is up to you; some prefer a light coating, while others opt for a more generous one.
3. Add garlic and extra virgin olive oil from Spain: If you decide to use garlic, lightly rub a clove of garlic over the bread, after adding the tomato, for a spicy kick. Then, drizzle a tablespoon of Spanish extra virgin olive oil over each slice.  This olive oil, known for its superior quality, not only adds flavor but also helps bind all the components of the dish together.
4. Crown with Iberian ham: Place slices of Iberian ham on top of each slice, distributing them so that each bite offers a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Serve immediately after preparing, to enjoy the contrast between the crunchy bread, the fresh tomato, the subtle touch of garlic, the rich extra virgin olive oil from Spain, and the ham.

Tumaca bread with ham and extra virgin olive oil is more than just a simple dish; it is a sensory journey to the heart of Mediterranean cuisine, where simplicity meets exquisiteness. Enjoy it as a breakfast, appetizer, or as part of a larger meal, accompanied by cheeses, olives, and a glass of wine for a truly Spanish culinary experience.