These Luças Sardines in Olive Oil came from Amazon. They're usually not well-priced there, but a temporary price reduction made a two-pack quite reasonable. I'm looking forward to trying them.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 5/5.
I know I always say I like my pilchards smaller, but these big boys are nice looking. No scales, no tails. The oil is golden-hued but clear enough to see all the way to the bottom of the tin. The aroma from the can is of fresh sardine. A sip of the olive oil is also fresh, neutral but very clean-tasting.
Let's Eat
They are firm, and lift out onto the bowl of rice intact. The appearance is very clean, with no off-putting bits. Luças is to be commended for their attention to this detail.
There were 3 to 4 tablespoons of the oil remaining in the tin, and I poured about half of it over everything.
Digging in, they are resistant to being divided into bites with a fork. Not tough, but a longer way to go through than smaller fish.
The flavor is slightly tuna-like, but like good, fresh tuna. I guess that's due to the larger fish. But it's not in any way a bad thing. Even though listed as a low 170 mg, the salt level is just right. No complaints there at all.
Main Takeaways
- Big pilchards, but really good quality
- Good flavor
- Cleanly processed
I really liked these, and hope I can find a good source or a deal to get some more in this and other flavor varieties.
I didn't think these required any condiments, they stood that well on their own. But I had a good bit of rice left after the fish was gone, so I decided to try some Crunchy Chili/Onion Sprinkle Seasoning Blend I had just picked up from Trader Joe's. It has flavor elements similar to their Crunchy Chili/Onion condiment, but with the addition of a little dried Szechuan pepper. I cautiously added a light dusting to begin with, but ended up applying more. I'll keep it on hand for the next time a sardine or other tinned fish is a little bland or doesn't deliver on the spiciness.
Brand: Luças & Co.
Description: Sardines in olive oil
Species: Sardina pilchardus walbaum
Country of Origin: Portugal
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/Yes
Net Wt: 4.2 oz.
Price Range: $7-8