Tinned Fish Club for January: La Barca Squid in Ink, Jose Gourmet Sardines, and Queen of the Coast Tuna
La Barca Squid in Ink
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Squid ink is made of melanin (the same pigment found in human skin) combined with natural proteins to form a thick, smoke-like cloud. When threatened, squid release this ink to confuse predators, sometimes shaping it into a decoy “phantom squid” while they jet away. It’s one of the most dramatic escape acts in the animal kingdom.
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Luckily for us, that same ink is also delicious. Rich in umami with a hint of ocean brine, it has been prized in Mediterranean cooking for centuries. Squid are typically caught at night, when they rise closer to the surface and are drawn to light. This method is both selective and low-impact, helping to protect marine ecosystems.
Queen of the coast Tuna and Chickpeas
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In recent years, tinned fish has moved beyond being just an ingredient and into the role of a ready-made meal. Producers are increasingly creating thoughtfully balanced tins designed to be eaten straight from the can.
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Ramirez & CÂŞ (Filhos) SA has been preserving seafood since 1853, and their Queen of the Coast line leans lighter and more modern, offering tins that feel complete, flavorful, and ready to eat with no preparation required. Pairing tuna with chickpeas follows a long Mediterranean tradition, turning pantry staples into a satisfying, protein-rich dish that is both ancient and timeless.
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Jose Gourmet Sardines in EVOO
José Gourmet has helped usher in a modern revival of Portuguese conservas. At a time when canned fish was often treated as an afterthought, the brand set out to show that sardines could be just as thoughtful and expressive as wine or olive oil.
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Rather than owning a factory, the brand partners with small, traditional canneries across Portugal, working only with producers who still rely on time-honored methods like hand-cleaning, gentle pre-cooking, and careful packing. The illustrated tins, each created by a Portuguese artist, reflect that philosophy and celebrate Portugal’s deep relationship with the sea. Inside, you’ll find firm, tender sardines preserved in rich extra virgin olive oil, clean in flavor and quietly luxurious.
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Tinned Fish Club for January: La Barca Squid in Ink, Jose Gourmet Sardines, and Queen of the Coast Tuna
Meet the Makers: FANGST, Purveyors of Creative Nordic Tinned Fish
