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Did you know that in Murcia we have a unique breed of pig in the world? The Chato Murciano is not only part of our history, but it is also behind some of the tastiest and most authentic sausages you can taste. Discover its origin, its recovery and why its products are conquering the lovers of good food.
There are flavors that tell stories. Stories of land, of climate, of traditions that refuse to disappear. In the Region of Murcia, one of those flavors with soul is that of the Chato Murciano, a native breed of pig that is not only part of our livestock heritage, but also of our gastronomic memory.
Those who have tasted sausages made with its meat know it: Chato Murciano is like nothing else. Its infiltrated fat, its mellow texture and its deep flavor make it a jewel for palates seeking authentic flavors, without camouflage. But behind each slice of ham, salchichón, chorizo or cured loin there is a story of resistance, recovery and love for what is ours.
Today at Casa Ballester we want to bring you closer to this gastronomic treasure from Murcia. Because knowing its origin is to enjoy it even more. And because supporting the Chato Murciano is also a way to take care of what we are.
What is Chato Murciano?
The Chato Murciano is a breed of pig native to the Region of Murcia, recognizable by its compact body, drooping ears and, as its name indicates, its short or “flat” muzzle. This peculiarity is not only aesthetic: it is also linked to a constitution that favors the infiltration of fat in the meat, which gives its products an exceptional flavor and juiciness.
It is a rustic breed, perfectly adapted to the dry and hot climate of the area, and for centuries it was part of the Murcian rural landscape.
Raised on small family farms, fed naturally with time and care, the Chato Murciano was for a long time the main source of quality meat and sausages in the region.
Unlike other more industrial breeds, its growth is slower, which allows for better meat quality. Its dark skin color and its intense pink and veined meat distinguish it immediately. It is not just any pig: it is an animal with character, with history… and with a flavor that you will never forget.
History of the recovery of this autochthonous breed
For decades, the Chato Murciano was a protagonist in the traditional slaughter of the Region of Murcia, but as the 20th century progressed, its breeding was displaced by more productive breeds adapted to intensive industry. The result: this native breed, with centuries of history, was on the verge of disappearing.
The turning point came thanks to a key name: José Reverte Navarro, a farmer from Lorca, who more than 25 years ago decided to undertake the difficult task of recovering the Chato Murciano and returning it to the place it deserved. With a firm vocation for tradition and the Murcian genetic heritage, Reverte began to work on the improvement and recovery of this breed with the help of institutions such as the IMIDA (Murcian Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research and Development) and the CIFEA (Integrated Center for Agricultural Training and Experiences). Thanks to their work, and the joint efforts of farmers, researchers from the University of Murcia and the regional administration, a conservation plan was initiated that has made it possible to maintain and multiply the population of this unique breed.
Today the Chato Murciano has re-emerged as an example of sustainability, quality and tradition. Not only has the breed been preserved, but also revalued in the gastronomic world, where its meats and sausages are already considered a true gourmet delicacy.
Chato Murciano sausages: craftsmanship, flavor and Murcian tradition.
The meat of the Chato Murciano is an exceptional raw material for the production of sausages. Its higher infiltrated fat content, firm texture and intense flavor give each product made from this breed a unique personality. This is no ordinary meat: it is meat with character, ideal for those who seek authenticity in every bite.
Among the most representative sausages made with Chato Murciano are the following:
- Salchichón: compact texture, with fine granularity and a clean, round flavor. The infiltrated fat enhances its juiciness without being heavy.
- Chorizo: made with paprika from Murcia, garlic and oregano, it has that spicy touch so characteristic of our land, balanced with the natural intensity of the meat.
- Sobrasada: unctuous, rich in nuances, with just the right spiciness and that enveloping aroma that makes it the absolute protagonist of any toast.
- Morcón: sausage in thick casing, with a slower curing process that accentuates the flavors and aromas. Ideal for lovers of cured sausages with character.
- Sausage loin: tender but firm, with a natural marbling that makes it especially tasty. A jewel for those who appreciate noble cuts.
- Chato Murciano Ham: cured slowly, with a fluid and aromatic fat that melts in the mouth. Its flavor is deep, with sweet and umami notes that make it unmistakable. A different ham, for those who seek the authentic.
The elaboration follows an artisan process, where every step is important. From the manual selection of the pieces, the mincing by knife or slow mill, the seasoning with natural spices (no industrial mixtures), to the stuffing in natural casings and the traditional curing in drying sheds with humidity and temperature control. Everything is done with the time required for a product of this quality. No rush. No shortcuts.
Traditional Murcian spices play a leading role here: sweet or spicy paprika from Murcia, fresh garlic, wild oregano… simple but powerful ingredients that accompany without hiding the deep and elegant flavor of Chato Murciano.
At Casa Ballester we have selected for you some of these sausages -such as sausage, chorizo and sobrasada-, authentic gems of Murcian flavor that you can enjoy at home with just one click or by coming to our stall at the Verónicas Market. Because a sausage like this is not only eaten… it is celebrated.
Why choose Chato Murciano sausages?
In a market saturated with industrial products, opting for Chato Murciano sausages is a declaration of intent: to choose flavor, authenticity and sustainability. This native breed not only offers exceptional quality, but also represents a way of consuming with awareness and connection to the territory.
Its meat is naturally juicier, with streaks of fat that translate into a mellow texture and a flavor full of nuances. Each bite reflects a slow and respectful aging, a balanced diet and a production process where craftsmanship takes precedence over profitability.
In addition, by choosing Chato Murciano sausages, you are supporting:
- The product of proximity, made in the Region of Murcia with local ingredients and hands.
- The conservation of a breed in danger of extinction, a symbol of our gastronomic identity.
- A more sustainable gastronomy, with extensive breeding and environmentally friendly processes.
- Unique flavors, impossible to replicate in industrial products: intense aromas, firm texture, natural spices and tradition in each cut.
In a world where everything goes too fast, going back to the traditional flavors is a luxury. And Chato Murciano is one of those luxuries worth discovering, sharing and enjoying.
Taste the Chato Murciano in Casa Ballester
At Casa Ballester we are passionate about offering products that tell a story. That is why we work directly with producers committed to quality and the territory, such as those who raise and produce Chato Murciano sausages.
In our online store and in our stall in the Mercado de Veronicas in Murcia, you will find a careful selection of Murcian chato sausages made by Los Tarquinossuch as sausage, chorizo, sobrasada and fresh product. Products made with care, which preserve the soul of the traditional and elevate the experience of those who appreciate the real taste.
We invite you to discover this Murcian treasure on your next visit or ordering it from the comfort of your home. Because there are flavors that deserve to be discovered and shared. And Chato Murciano is undoubtedly one of them.
