Boadas 1880: Five Generations of Spanish Charcuterie Excellence

There's something deeply romantic about a family business that has survived world wars, economic crises, and the relentless march of industrial food production. Boadas 1880 is one such story—a tale of dedication, tradition, and ham that began in the hills of Catalonia and has quietly become one of Spain's most respected names in cured meats.

In this guide, we'll explore everything UK shoppers need to know about Boadas 1880, from their fascinating history to where you can find their products on British shelves.

What is Boadas 1880?

Boadas 1880 is a Spanish charcuterie producer that has been crafting cured meats for over 140 years. Founded by Pedro Boadas Vilaplana in Girona, Catalonia, the company began as a small family operation and has grown into an internationally recognised producer of premium Serrano and Ibérico ham.

What makes Boadas particularly special is the unbroken chain of family ownership. Now in its fifth generation, the company remains committed to the artisanal techniques passed down through the Boadas family. By 1908, Pedro had already established his own slaughterhouse, veterinary services, and cold storage facilities—a remarkable achievement for a small producer in early 20th century Spain.

Today, Boadas holds multiple quality certifications including BRC Global Standards, IFS Food, and the prestigious ETG (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed) mark from the Consorcio Serrano. They export to Australia, Canada, Japan, South America, and across the European Union—including the UK.

The Boadas Philosophy: Traditional Methods, Modern Standards

The heart of Boadas' production lies in their drying rooms in Salamanca, a region famous for its ideal climate for curing ham. The process begins with carefully selected fresh pork legs, which are coated in sea salt and left to cure in temperature-controlled environments that mimic the traditional natural curing conditions.

What sets Boadas apart from industrial producers is their insistence on time. Their Gran Reserva Serrano ham is aged for a minimum of 18 months in the darkness of their Salamanca cellars. This extended maturation allows the meat to develop its characteristic depth of flavour—mildly aromatic with a distinctive taste that lingers on the palate.

Boadas 1880 Product Range

Jamón Serrano Gran Reserva

The flagship product of the Boadas range, this ham represents the pinnacle of their Serrano production. Cured for at least 18 months, it offers a complex flavour profile with subtle sweetness and a firm but yielding texture. Available in whole legs, pre-sliced packs, and convenient taquitos (small cubes) for cooking.

Price range in UK: £3.50-£6.00 for sliced packs (80-150g)

Jamón de Cebo Ibérico

For those seeking a step up from Serrano, Boadas offers Ibérico ham from pigs raised on a mixed diet of grains and natural foraging. While not as prestigious as the acorn-fed Bellota grade, Cebo Ibérico offers an excellent introduction to the world of Ibérico ham at a more accessible price point.

Price range in UK: £8.00-£15.00 for sliced packs

Paleta Serrano Reserva

The front shoulder (paleta) offers a slightly different eating experience to the back leg (jamón). Boadas' paleta is cured for 7-8 months and has a slightly higher fat content, making it intensely flavourful and perfect for those who appreciate a richer taste. It's also significantly more affordable than the full leg.

Chorizo and Salchichón

Beyond ham, Boadas produces traditional Spanish chorizo and salchichón (a peppery cured sausage similar to salami). These products follow the same philosophy of quality ingredients and patient curing that defines their ham production.

Understanding Spanish Ham: Serrano vs Ibérico

Before we dive into where to buy Boadas products, it's worth understanding the distinction between Serrano and Ibérico ham—two terms that often confuse UK shoppers.

Serrano Ham

Serrano ham comes from white pig breeds such as Duroc, Landrace, or Large White. These pigs are typically farm-raised on a diet of grains and legumes. The ham is cured for 7-16 months depending on the grade:

• Bodega: 9-11 months curing
• Reserva: 12-14 months curing
• Gran Reserva: 15+ months curing (Boadas' specialty)

Serrano is characterised by its pink colour, subtle flavour, and firmer texture. It's the more affordable option and is widely available in UK supermarkets.

Ibérico Ham

Ibérico ham comes exclusively from Iberian black pigs, a rare breed native to the Iberian Peninsula. These pigs have a unique genetic ability to store fat within their muscle tissue, creating the beautiful marbling that makes Ibérico ham so prized.

The grading system for Ibérico is more complex:

• Cebo: Grain-fed pigs
• Cebo de Campo: Free-range pigs with some natural foraging
• Bellota: Acorn-fed pigs that roam freely in oak forests (dehesas)

Ibérico ham is typically cured for 14-36 months and commands significantly higher prices. You can expect to pay at least three times more per kilo for Ibérico compared to Serrano.

Where to Buy Boadas 1880 in the UK

Finding Boadas products in the UK has become increasingly straightforward as British consumers develop a taste for quality Spanish charcuterie.

Ocado

Ocado stocks a selection of Boadas products, including their pre-sliced Serrano ham and taquitos. The online retailer offers convenient home delivery, making it an excellent option for regular purchases.

Specialist Spanish Food Retailers

For the full Boadas range, specialist retailers often provide better selection:

• Brindisa: The UK's longest-established Spanish food importer, with over 35 years of experience
• Iberica Foods: Online retailer with extensive charcuterie selection
• Spanish Club UK: Direct imports from Spain

Price Comparison

Note: Prices vary and specialist retailers may offer bulk discounts or subscription savings.

How to Serve and Store Boadas Ham

Getting the most from quality Spanish ham requires a little knowledge about serving and storage.

Serving Temperature

Always serve Serrano and Ibérico ham at room temperature. Remove from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before serving to allow the fat to soften and the aromas to develop. Cold ham tastes flat and the texture becomes unpleasantly firm.

Slicing

For whole legs, invest in a proper jamonero (ham stand) and a long, flexible slicing knife. Slice paper-thin for the best eating experience. Pre-sliced products from Boadas are cut to the ideal thickness, making them convenient for everyday use.

Storage

Store unopened vacuum-packed ham in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator. Once opened, wrap in wax paper or a breathable cloth and consume within a few days for optimal quality. Never store in plastic wrap, which can cause the ham to sweat and develop off-flavours.

Pairing Suggestions

Boadas Serrano ham pairs beautifully with:

• Manchego cheese: The classic combination
• Fresh melon: A summer favourite
• Crusty bread rubbed with tomato: Pan con tomate, a Catalan specialty
• Sherry: Fino or Manzanilla styles complement the saltiness
• Olives: Browse our olives, tapas and antipasti selection

Boadas 1880 vs Other Spanish Ham Brands

How does Boadas compare to other Spanish ham brands available in the UK?

Boadas vs Supermarket Own-Brand

Supermarket own-brand Serrano ham typically uses shorter curing times and less stringent selection criteria. While adequate for cooking, these products lack the depth of flavour found in Boadas' Gran Reserva. The price difference (usually £1-2 per pack) is worth it for eating occasions where the ham is the star.

Boadas vs Premium Brands

Brands like Cinco Jotas, Covap, and Joselito occupy the ultra-premium end of the market, particularly for Ibérico Bellota. For everyday Serrano ham, Boadas offers comparable quality at a more accessible price point. Their 140+ years of experience and family heritage provide assurance of consistent quality.

Tips for Getting the Best Value on Boadas Products

Spanish ham represents excellent value when you know how to shop smart.

1. Buy whole legs for special occasions: While the upfront cost is higher, whole legs offer better value per kilo and make impressive centrepieces for parties
2. Try paleta instead of jamón: The front shoulder costs less and many connoisseurs actually prefer its richer flavour
3. Use taquitos for cooking: Boadas' ham cubes are perfect for adding to pasta dishes, salads, and scrambled eggs
4. Compare prices across retailers: Use Grocefully to compare prices on Spanish charcuterie across UK supermarkets
5. Look for multi-buy offers: Specialist retailers often discount when you buy several packs
6. Store properly: Waste is expensive—proper storage ensures you enjoy every slice
7. Start with Serrano: If you're new to Spanish ham, Boadas' Serrano Gran Reserva offers exceptional quality without the premium price of Ibérico

The Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Modern consumers increasingly care about how their food is produced. Boadas' traditional methods have some inherent sustainability advantages:

• Longer shelf life: Proper curing means less food waste
• Whole animal usage: Traditional charcuterie uses parts of the pig that might otherwise be wasted
• Local production: Products are made in Spain using Spanish pigs

However, like all meat products, Spanish ham has an environmental footprint. Those concerned about sustainability might consider treating quality ham as an occasional luxury rather than an everyday staple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boadas 1880 ham good quality?

Yes, Boadas is considered a premium producer with over 140 years of heritage. Their membership of the Consorcio Serrano and multiple international quality certifications (BRC, IFS) confirm their commitment to high standards. The 18-month minimum curing time for their Gran Reserva exceeds the industry standard.

Where is Boadas 1880 ham made?

Boadas was founded in Girona, Catalonia, and the company still operates from the region. However, their drying rooms are located in Salamanca, which offers ideal climate conditions for curing ham. Salamanca is one of Spain's most prestigious ham-producing regions.

What's the difference between Boadas Serrano and Ibérico?

Boadas Serrano comes from white pigs and is cured for up to 18 months, offering a subtle, balanced flavour at an accessible price. Their Ibérico comes from black Iberian pigs and features more intense flavour, darker colour, and greater marbling. Ibérico costs significantly more but represents a step up in complexity and richness.

Can I buy a whole Boadas ham leg in the UK?

Yes, specialist retailers like Brindisa and Jamon.co.uk import whole legs. Expect to pay £80-150 for a Serrano leg and £200-400+ for Ibérico. You'll also need a jamonero stand and carving knife, adding to the initial investment.

How long does Boadas ham last once opened?

Pre-sliced vacuum packs should be consumed within 3-5 days of opening when stored properly in the refrigerator. Whole legs can last several weeks if kept covered and at the correct temperature (15-20°C). Always slice from the same area to minimise exposed surface.

Is Boadas ham suitable for cooking?

Absolutely. Their taquitos (ham cubes) are specifically designed for cooking applications. Serrano ham adds incredible depth to dishes like Spanish omelettes, croquetas, melon salads, and wrapped around asparagus or chicken.

Does Boadas make any pork-free products?

No, Boadas is exclusively a pork charcuterie producer. For those requiring halal or pork-free alternatives, you'll need to look at other brands specialising in beef or poultry-based cured meats.

Where can I find the best prices on Boadas ham?

Prices vary between retailers. Ocado typically offers competitive pricing on standard products, while specialist Spanish food retailers may offer better deals on larger quantities or rarer items. Using a price comparison tool like Grocefully helps identify the best current deals across UK supermarkets.

Final Thoughts

In a food industry increasingly dominated by industrial production and corner-cutting, Boadas 1880 stands as a reminder of what's possible when quality and tradition take precedence over efficiency and profit margins. Five generations of the Boadas family have dedicated themselves to perfecting the art of Spanish charcuterie, and the results speak—or rather, taste—for themselves.

Whether you're a seasoned Spanish ham enthusiast or curious to explore beyond supermarket basics, Boadas offers an accessible entry point into the world of premium cured meats. Their Gran Reserva Serrano provides exceptional value, while their Ibérico range offers a taste of Spain's finest without requiring a second mortgage.

Start your Spanish ham journey by comparing prices on Grocefully, and discover why this 140-year-old family business continues to win admirers across the globe.

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