Jamón Ibérico as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Jamón Ibérico is absolutely in that category. The deeply aromatic quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. smoked paprika does work that no substitute can replicate.

Spanish eating culture centres on long social meals rather than quick eating. There's something about the a siesta-hour lunch restaurant context that reinforces the comfort effect. Rioja red wine alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.