I got these Ati Manel Mackerel Filets in Olive Oil from Caputo's a few months back. After trying a variety of different tins in the interim, it seemed like a good time to revisit mackerel. You may remember my experience with another Ati Manel mackerel did not go so well. This time, I'm sure it will be different.
Initial impression upon opening the can: Relief.
Some gorgeous mackerel filets. There's no discernable aroma coming from the can. The oil is transparent, and a sip of it is neutral.
A small bite of fish reveals a rich, mild flavor with none of that "tang" for which tuna is generally known. And I think that's what attracts me most to mackerel. The texture is firm but still tender at the same time, the meat flaking readily.
Mackerel Three Ways
I'm able to pry the filets from the can mostly intact. There are four in total. There was about a quarter inch of oil left in the can, and I poured about half over the fish and rice.
One filet I ate plain, just to assess flavor and salt level. The meat is not juicy per se, but at the same time not dry. The saltiness was very subdued, almost undetectable, which ended up being a good thing, as I was about to kick things up a bit.
Bring On The Umami
I added two different toppings. Upper in the photo is some garlic furikake. I thought its delicate flavors and relatively low salt level made for a delicious combination.
Below that is some Fly By Jing Xtra Crunchy Sichuan Chili Crisp. It's quite a bit saltier, and I probably should have used less. I scraped a good bit of it aside after the first bites, leaving only a little on the fish. That was an improvement, as it spiced up the fish without totally overpowering its flavor.
Overall, a good can of fish. A little pricey at $8, but certainly worth it.
Main Takeaways
- Rich, mild flavor
- Firm but tender
- Generous portion of intact, whole filets
Brand: 100 Misterios / Ati Manel
Description: Mackerel Filets in Olive Oil
Species: Scomber japonicus
Country of Origin: Portugal
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: No/No
Net Wt: 4.2 oz.
Price Range: $8