These Briosa Gourmet Spiced Mackerel Fillets came with an order from International Loft about two months ago. I don't know why it took so long to get around to cracking the can. I had previously reviewed their spiced sardines around that time, and found them worthy. Would these be as impressive? Let's find out.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 5/5.
Some beautiful mackerel fillets. The aroma of spice hits the nose immediately. A sip of the oil has a spiciness reminiscent of a Spanish red vermut. A nibble of the fish has, as hoped, a mild, fresh fish taste.
Let's Dig In
Lifting the fillets from the can, they are firm and remain relatively intact. There are five fillets, or at least separate pieces, in total. Some tend to split lengthwise as they are transferred to the bowl of rice.
Underneath, there is the trinity of carrot, pepper and pickle. I taste the latter, and it indeed appears to be a pickle, not just a slice of cucumber. This time, there are two small cloves, maybe three, as I think I ate a tiny one with the last fragment of fish in the can. The pepper appears to have expended the bulk of its heat, infusing it into the olive oil.
About two tablespoons-worth of the red-tinged oil were left in the tin, and I poured the majority of it out over everything.
The meat is firm yet tender, flaking readily. I marveled as I ate how in-balance everything was and how complementary it was to the fish. The spices, the heat, the salt level all in a just-right combination. None overpowered the other nor the flavor of the fish, and the heat remained steady and subtle throughout. At no point did I consider adding any hot sauce or chili crisp. I can't think of anything that would have improved upon it just as it came from the tin.
Mian Takeaways
- Mild, meaty mackerel
- Well-balanced spices
- Generous portion
A definite re-buy.
Brand: Conservas Portugal Norte / Briosa Gourmet
Description: Spiced mackerel fillets in olive oil
Species: Scomber sp.
Country of Origin: Portugal
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: No/No
Net Wt: 4.2 oz.
Price Range: $6-7