If there is one product that truly represents the essence of Leonese gastronomy, it’s cecina. Cured by the dry mountain air and backed by centuries of history, Cecina de León is not just a cold cut: it is a symbol of identity, flavour and tradition.
In this guide we’ll tell you about the most well-known types of cecina, their differences, how to eat it and where you can try or buy it in León.
🐄 What is Cecina de León?
Cecina de León is cured meat, usually beef, which goes through a process of salting, smoking and air-drying. It is produced following traditional methods and bears the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) seal.
It stands out for its intense flavour, firm texture and gentle smoky aroma. Many people describe it as “beef serrano ham”, but anyone who has tried it knows it has its own unique character.
🃏 And even though it’s called “Cecina de León”… it actually comes from cow! (Yes, it’s the classic local joke, but everyone here makes it.)
🔍 Types of cecina you can find in León
🥇 Beef cecina (PGI Cecina de León)
- The best-known and most highly valued variety.
- Made from the hind legs of adult cattle.
- Elegant, smoky flavour with notes of slowly cured meat.
- Best enjoyed in thin slices, at room temperature or slightly warmed with a drizzle of olive oil.
🐐 Goat cecina
- Less common, with a more intense and rustic flavour.
- Very popular in rural mountain areas.
- Harder to find, but available at fairs and specialised shops.
🐴 Horse cecina
- Traditional in some Leonese villages.
- Its flavour is sweeter and less fatty.
- Ideal for the most curious foodies and lovers of distinctive flavours.
🧀 Cecina in dishes and pairings
- Cecina with goat’s cheese and red pepper jam (very popular as a tapa).
- Toast with cecina and foie in modern bars.
- Cecina croquettes in many restaurants in León.
- Warm salad with cecina and walnuts, perfect when you want something light but tasty.
🛒 Where to buy the best cecina in León
- Mercado del Conde Luna: traditional stalls selling artisan cecina.
- Producers such as Embutidos Entrepeñas, El Abuelo Justo, La Montaña de León…
- Gourmet shops in the old town, like Embutishop or Tierra Gourmet.
- Feria de Productos de León (October): the ideal place to taste several varieties.
🍷 What to drink with cecina
A good cecina deserves a good wine. We recommend pairing it with:
- Red wine from El Bierzo, such as a young Mencía.
- Prieto Picudo, typical of the south of the province.
- Rustic country bread, aged cheese, olive oil… and not much else. Cecina is the real star.
🏡 León Apartamentos: your base for discovering Leonese gastronomy
Planning a trip to León and eager to explore its gastronomy? At León Apartamentos you stay in the heart of the city, surrounded by bars, shops and markets where cecina awaits you at every corner.
✔️ Modern apartments with fully equipped kitchen
✔️ Private parking if you are doing a food-focused road trip
✔️ Just a short walk from the Barrio Húmedo and its best tapas
