Found this J-Basket Saba Kabayaki at a local Asian Market. Most if not all of their tinned fish selections are seasoned in one way or another. Kabayaki, as you may recall, is grilling and glazing with a sweet/savory sauce. This saba (mackerel) was under $3. It appears to also be sold in an otherwise identical can branded Wel-Pac.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 3.5/5.
The can was packed reasonably full, with a little bit of space. Once again, the kabayaki treatment has given the fish a brownish beige tint. The aroma is not overtly fishy. Because of the preparation, the taste is about the same as the Choshita brand of saury/sanma I tried previously, but the fish is a bit chewier. There is some skin, and bones soft enough to not be crunchy.
I think when the various cans of kabayaki style fish I have on hand are gone, I'm probably done with the whole kabayaki thing. And I actually wonder if there are any Japanese tinned fish products that aren't pre-seasoned in some way. Honestly, I'd rather the taste of the fish. Good experience, though.
Brand: J-Basket
Description: Saba (Mackerel) Kabayaki
Species: Pacific mackerel
Country of Origin: Japan
Source: FAO61, Northwest Pacific
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 3.5 oz.
Price Range: $2-3