Taking a break from the quest for the ultimate sardines with lemon. Here's some Cole's Smoked Mussels in EVOO. The can I opened says, I swear, "in extra virgin olive oil". But no photo I can find online, even at their website says that, only "in olive oil". No matter, I'll buy another can tomorrow and photograph it myself.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 3.5/5.
A kind of monochromatic look to the meat. No variegated coloration like some brands. Perhaps it's a difference in species. The aroma is about what you'd expect, that of shellfish and the sea. The texture is meaty, not mealy like smoked oyster can be.
But look at the actual photo I took of the just-opened can (click to enlarge). I left the glare of the flash so you can see the droplets of oil on the surface of the packing liquid. Oil doesn't form droplets on the surface of itself. I really wonder what is the legal definition of "in oil" for tinned fish products.
Anyway, (lack of) olive oil aside, these were still tasty. Roughly, I estimate there were 18-20 in the can, most whole with only a few ragged bits. True hardwood smoked, not just added smoke flavoring. Paired with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, the mineral notes of each complimented the other nicely. The wine's bright acidity a contrast to the savory.
Brand: Cole's Seafood
Description: Smoked Mussels in EVOO
Species:
Country of Origin: Chile
Source: Farm raised
Skin/Bones: N/A
Net Wt: 4.0 oz.
Price Range: $3-4