How to identify gourmet preserves and semi-preserves?

Nowadays, there are multiple options for the same product from different companies on the food market, so choosing which one to choose can be overwhelming. That’s why in this blog we’ll talk about how to distinguish high-quality products from conventional ones, specifically with regard to semi-preserved and gourmet fish preserves.

Preserves are considered gourmet when they offer a product of superior quality compared to others. To take this quality into account, it is necessary to look at some aspects: the origin of the raw material, the ingredients used, the production process, the appearance, taste and texture of the food, and the packaging.

Packaging

The first thing we see when we find a preserve is its packaging. Although it may seem like a trivial aspect, the packaging can be a key element in identifying a gourmet preserve. Aesthetically, the design has to reflect an exclusive and high-quality product , and it is also where we get most of the information about the product: its origin, its ingredients, its preparation, the number of pieces in the packaging, the nutritional values. Information that has to be transparent and correspond to the reality of the product. 

Denomination of origin

When we see anchovy or boquerón fillets or bonito loins from the Cantabrian Sea , we automatically know that we are dealing with a highly prized product. The characteristics of the northern waters influence the quality of the food, both due to its cold temperatures and also because of its rough waters, they contribute to strengthening the flesh of the fish, giving it a firmer consistency and a more intense and unique flavour.

Ingredients

When we see 100% natural ingredients without additives, it is a sign that we are dealing with a healthy and good quality product. The oil used for the preserve can also indicate its quality. Olive oil is the most prized, although sunflower oil is also common so as not to alter the flavour of the product. If other types of oil such as soya oil are used, they are not of such high quality. 

Elaboration

To detect a gourmet preserve, you have to know how it has been made. If the preparation is artisanal , we know that it is of quality, since it guarantees attention to detail that would not be found in a mass-produced product. The person who makes both the anchovy fillets and the northern bonito loins by hand selects the pieces one by one, always trying to meet certain quality requirements. The handling of the preserves is very delicate and requires skill and care that only an experienced person could do, not a machine.

Appearance, taste and texture

As we have said, the origin of the fish can determine its quality characteristics, as well as its hand-made preparation. The result is a product with an exquisite appearance, texture and flavour. 

As for appearance, gourmet preserves are usually characterized by being larger than usual , since the best pieces are selected from all the fish. 

In the case of gourmet anchovy fillets , they should have a fleshy and smooth texture, neither too soft nor too hard; with an intense reddish brown colour, since a duller or greyish colour could indicate that it is in poor condition or that it is an old fillet; without defects, bones or skin, and maintaining the fish’s own silhouette without being altered with trimmings. The flavour should be intense and balanced, without excess salt.

On the other hand, gourmet anchovy fillets in vinegar are also selected and are usually generous in size. The colour should be intense white on one side, without dark blood spots, and bright silver on the other, a sign of its freshness. With a fleshy, juicy and firm texture, and a fresh and slightly acidic flavour.

Finally, northern bonito should be whitish in color and have a firm, mellow texture; it should not be dry. 

Based on all of these characteristics, we know that we are dealing with high-quality gourmet products.

Now that you know how to differentiate them from conventional products, it will be much easier to choose when shopping and appreciate the magnificent qualities of gourmet preserves and semi-preserves. Enjoy them!