I received these Conservas de Cambados Small Sardines in Olive Oil with my last online order, and have been eager to try them. They also offer a very popular 20/25 count. As with many of their products, they are packaged in a cotton netting drawn and stapled closed at each end. Labels are affixed front and back.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 4.9/5.
Nice appearance with the silvery belly side up. A sniff of the freshly-opened can and a sip of the oil are similar. Both have a faint aroma and taste of fish and the sea. There are 8 visible on top, and 8 more underneath. They are not all that tiny, and this is one of those deeper cans. The 4 oz. net weight seems like an underestimate.
I ate the top layer straight from the can, unembellished by any condiments or additions. They were tender, even though they didn't break apart when plucked from the can. Their flavor is mild, and the salt level just right. These have a stand-alone quality a sardine purist can appreciate.
The remaining layer of eight, I dumped out over rice, along with a good portion of the olive oil left in the can.
With a few dashes of Salsa Espinaler, they made for a good, quick lunch. Alternatively, these would be perfect for an aperitivo board, alongside a selection of olives, cheeses and other briny and salty snacks.
While $12 might seem a little spendy for a can of sardines, consider that one, these are some quality fish, and two, it's almost like getting two cans-worth. Highly recommended.
Main Takeaways
- Fresh fish taste with just the right amount of salt
- A sardine purist's delight
- Spendy but worth it
Brand: Conservas de Cambados
Description: Small Sardines in Olive Oil 16/22
Species: Sardina pilchardus
Country of Origin: Spain
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 4 oz.
Price Range: $11-12