Hey there! Have you heard of tinned fish? It’s been all the rage lately, and for good reason. Tinned fish is a healthy and sustainable option that’s high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, it’s an easy appetizer to assemble that you can make as elaborate or simple as you want.
I recently hosted a tinned fish night with some friends, and it was such a fun and unique experience. We tried different types of tinned fish, paired them with delicious accompaniments, and enjoyed a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a new and trendy way to entertain your guests, I highly recommend giving tinned fish a try.
In this post, I’ll share some tips and tricks for hosting your own tinned fish night, including how to choose the right fish, what accompaniments to pair with it, and how to create an inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned host or a beginner, hosting a tinned fish night is a great way to impress your guests and have a memorable time. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of tinned fish together!
Diving into Tinned Fish: Tips for Choosing
When it comes to tinned fish, there are many different types and brands to choose from. Some of the most popular options include sardines, anchovies, mackerel, tuna, and salmon. However, you might also find more exotic choices like octopus or squid. Some of my favorite options include:
- Spanish Mussels in Escabeche from La Brújula: These mussels are marinated in a tangy and flavorful escabeche sauce.
- José Gourmet Portuguese Seafood Paté: This paté is made with mackerel, sardines, or tuna and is perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.
- Ortiz Anchovy Fillets in Oil: These anchovy fillets are packed in oil for maximum flavor. They add a salty bite to any pairing. I like to wrap one around a radish or on a cracker with a bit of soft cheese.
- Cantabrian Anchovies in Extra Virgin Olive Oil: These anchovies are similar to the ones above but are slightly larger and are packed in oil for a rich and buttery flavor. The packaging is extra cute, making for a perfect addition to your next board.
- Nuri Spiced Sardines in Tomato Sauce: These sardines are hand-packed in Portugal and are seasoned with a spicy tomato sauce for a delicious kick.
- Fishwife The Fly By Jing Smoked Salmon: These smoked salmon fillets are marinated in the iconic Fly by Jing spicy Szechuan chili crisp oil.
- Pollastrini Di Anzio Italian Sardines in Olive Oil with Chili Peppers: These sardines are sustainably caught off the coast of Italy and are packed with chili peppers for a bold and spicy flavor. These are my favorite right now!
- José Gourmet Canned Portuguese Seafood 4 Pack: This variety pack includes four different seafood (squid, cod, mackerel, and sardine) for a delicious and diverse tinned fish board.
When selecting tinned fish, make sure to look for high-quality options that are sustainably sourced and responsibly caught. Experiment with different types and brands to find your favorites!
Pairing with Accompaniments
Pairing tinned fish with the right accompaniments can elevate your board and create a perfectly balanced flavor profile. To start, there are many options to choose from, including crackers, potato chips, bread, and even crostini. I recommend the Potter’s Crackers Caramelized Onion Crisps. I like to add soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can also be a great addition. One of my favorite cheeses is the Meredith Dairy Marinated Sheep and Goat Cheese. Olives, pickles, and nuts add a tangy and salty flavor, while fresh herbs like parsley or chives provide a pop of freshness. Sauces like aioli or mustard can add a zesty kick to the board. I also like to sometimes add dried fruits such as apricots or prunes for a sweet bite to offset the saltiness of everything else going on And don’t forget about fresh vegetables like radishes or snap peas, which add crunch, color and a tangy bite to the mix. Lastly, you can also add citrus wedges of your choosing for your guests to squeeze on top of your tinned fish selections to add some acidity to the mix. Play around with different combinations to find your perfect pairing!
