I found this Wild Planet Smoked Mackerel in Extra Virgin Olive Oil intriguing because it emphasized the "smoked" aspect. Not so many other tinned mackerels do, even though they might list smoke flavor on the container. Unsmoked, mackerel can be a buttery, rich, tender bite of fish. I wondered what a truly smoked iteration might taste like.
Initial impression upon opening the can: 4/5.
What it lacks in visual appeal, however, it more than makes up for in taste. The contents are two fillets stacked, skin side down. A bit firmer than other mackerel tasted to date, but it's still acceptably tender.
The smoke flavor, naturally achieved, is forward, but not overpowering. I tried a couple of bites with just a few drops of Valentina hot sauce, and it made for an interesting flavor combination.
Recommended. I paid $5 at WF, but I see it's currently under $4 on sale for Amazon Prime members there.
The packaging lacks source information, other than to say "product of Latvia".
Main Takeaways
- Good balance on the smoke
- Firm but still tender enough
- Good value, especially if on sale
Brand: Wild Planet
Description: Wild Smoked Mackerel in EVOO
Species: Scomber japonicus or Scomber colias
Country of Origin: Latvia
Source: FAO27, Northeast Atlantic
Skin/Bones: Yes/No
Net Wt: 3.9 oz.
Price Range: $5