These Patagonia Provisions Spicy White Anchovies came from Whole Foods, where they are a new item. Several visits were required to obtain them as the initial stock coincided with a sale, they sold out quickly, and then restocking took forever. I finally found them back in stock, but sadly, after the sale. Still, they were less expensive than the average online price. Let's try them.
I'm amazed by comments online that state, "they're not very salty", or "they're not white". These are not the anchovies you put on your pizza (although you could), nor in your Caesar salad dressing.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 5/5.
Firm and meaty looking fish. The oil (organic EVOO) is tinged red from organic Spanish paprika and cayenne. The aroma is a tangy, from the apple cider vinegar. There is no real aroma of fish, or it's masked by the spices.
Let's Eat
Pulling them from the tin, they are quite firm. A more slender fish than sardines, and I see no fins or tails. Not really any scales, either. There are six fish total.
The remaining liquid in the tin has bits of diced red bell pepper, and I poured everything over the fish and rice.
Digging in, they slightly resist being divided into bite-size pieces with a fork. The flavor of the fish is fresh. The texture is a tad dry, but not a deal breaker.
The seasonings were well-balanced and the salt level unobtrusive, even though it's listed as a moderately high 840mg. The back of the carton states, "The Heat Is On", but there's not really any heat here, the cayenne being last on the ingredient list. "Spicy" sardines are usually seasoned with piri-piri peppers. The seasoning here is more akin to an escabeche style pickled sauce.
White anchovies make for an interesting alternative to sardines. I'd certainly have no problem getting these again, especially if they're on sale.
Main Takeaways
- Fresh, meaty fish
- Well-balanced seasoning
- Not too salty
Brand: Patagonia Provisions
Description: Spicy White Anchovies in EVOO
Species: Engraulis encrasicolus
Country of Origin: Spain
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 4.2 oz.
Price Range: $7
