I ordered these Ati Manel Horse Mackerel in Olive Oil with Basil to both try something unfamiliar and also to make my order a little more profitable for the seller. They don't charge for shipping on any of their tinned fish, so I feel like it's only fair that I try to be a good trading partner and order at least 5 or 6 cans at a time.
Initial impression upon opening the can: Puzzled.
I thought, this being mackerel, I was going to see either a big chunk of meat or some nice slices. There was no photo of the open can on the website. I had to look at the carton twice to make sure I hadn't opened a can of sardines by mistake. But, no, I hadn't. Looking closer, yep, those are pectoral fins. They all had dorsal fins, too. The tails were mostly trimmed.
There wasn't much of an aroma, fish-wise or seasoning-wise. I know that the smell of fresh basil is quickly lost to the heat of cooking. The ingredients, other than the fish, say olive oil and "basil sauce", which is comprised of EVOO, peeled tomato, lemon juice and basil. Unfortunately, none of that really brought anything to the overall taste experience. In fact, I didn't get any of the taste for which I have come to enjoy canned mackerel. I think if the flavor of these had really knocked my socks off, I might have more easily overlooked the finny presentation. But it didn't.
I thought this was interesting. I noticed the box was a little beat-up looking, a little smashed. Then I opened it. The carton is about 20% deeper than it needs to be, relative to the depth of the can. Maybe they save money by not having to buy different size cartons.
The vendor also sells through Amazon, but I don't see this one there. Other Ati Manel selections, though, are at the same price as direct from them, when purchased in lots of three. Free shipping if you have Amazon Prime.
Brand: 100 Misterios / Ati Manel
Description: Horse Mackerel in Olive Oil with Basil
Species: Trachurus trachurus
Country of Origin: Portugal
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 3.2 oz.
Price Range: $8