Skip to content

Tag: Fly By Jing

Published on Leave a comment on Chili Crisp Topping Comparison

Today, we're going to conduct a Chili Crisp Topping Comparison of three popular versions. Each is conceived from a different culinary point of view, and each by a different maker. As such, it won't necessarily be an apples to apples comparison.

Chili Crisp is a popular condiment primarily found in Asian cuisines. At its most basic, it consists of a chili-infused oil filled with crunchy fried aromatics like onion, garlic and spices. You can read all about it here.

In the context of tinned fish, chili crisp has been shown to pair well with smoked fish such as salmon. It has the potential to pair equally well with smoked mackerel. One cannery, Fishwife, and one chili crisp brand, Fly By Jing, have even collaborated to produce the smoky, sweet, salty and savory synergy that is Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Sichuan Chili Crisp.

Affiliate link, earns commissions

We'll begin our comparison with the original, Lao Gan Ma.

Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp

Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp label
Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp ingredient list

In 1984, Chinese restaurateur Tao Huabi is said to have invented, and in 1997 began the first commercial production of chili crisp in Guizhou under the Lao Gan Ma ("Old Godmother") brand. It quickly became popular and, eventually, a Chinese pantry staple.

...continue reading "Chili Crisp Topping Comparison"

Published on Leave a comment on Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Sichuan Chili Crisp

I've been waiting for this Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Sichuan Chili Crisp to come back on sale again at Whole Foods. Last time, it was out of stock by the time I got there. This time, there was exactly one can on the shelf the second day of the sale period. At $15, it's probably one of, if not the most expensive cans of tinned fish you're likely to find on a shelf at a local store. Was it worth it, even at 30% off for Amazon Prime members? Let's find out.

Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Sichuan Chili Crisp carton
Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Sichuan Chili Crisp open can
Initial impression upon opening the can: 4.9/5.

A fraction deducted for that empty space at the bottom that could have had more fish in it. Otherwise, the appearance and smoky aroma are enticing. A taste of a pinch of the fish is reminiscent of their Slow Smoked Mackerel. The meat is al dente, as one would expect of authentically smoked fish. I am also already making a mental comparison to the Wildfish Cannery Habanero Smoked Coho Salmon I had tried previously.

Diving In
Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Sichuan Chili Crisp over rice

The carton suggests serving over rice, so that's what I did. Dumped out, you can see some skin and all the goodies from the chili crisp.

If you're familiar with chili crisp, you'll know that Fly By Jing Chili Crisp, like this tinned salmon, is also one of the most expensive of its kind you're likely to find on a local store shelf. It's seen at around $10 to $14, typically, for a small 6 ounce jar.

As I worked my way through the bowl, I found myself dividing the fish into ever smaller pieces, trying to extend the premium experience out as long as possible. As with their slow smoked mackerel, there is a balance of sweet, salty, savory and heat. Except, this time, the heat is kicked up to the next level by the chili crisp. As I finished, I noted the slight numbness to the lips Sichuan peppercorn is known to cause.

Other Thoughts

One caveat. Although it doesn't seem that high, the sodium content is whopping 1050 mg. for the single serving can.

Regardless, this was really good. But I'm just going to have to wait for a sale to buy more. $15 for 3.2 ounces translates to $75 a pound for smoked salmon. In the meantime, I know I can come quite close to the experience with their smoked mackerel. It normally sells in the $9 range. Or the Wildfish Habanero Smoked Coho for $10. Unfortunately, Whole Foods doesn't stock either.

Brand: Fishwife Tinned Seafood Co.
Description: Smoked Salmon with Fly By Jing Chili Crisp
Species: Atlantic salmon
Country of Origin: Norway
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/No
Net Wt: 3.2 oz.
Price Range: $15

Use code WELCOME10 for 10% off sitewide.

Affiliate link, earns commissions