🐟 Oil Packed #4

A fish that plays well with others

Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Salmon

Price: $3.69
Weight: 145g
Texture: Soft / Moist
Taste: Savory
Pair with: Literally anything with flavor

I have to say, I’m a really big fan of smoked fish. I could eat it for literally every meal. The last time I was at Trader Joe’s I realized that I had never tried this tin before, so I picked it up (along with others) and looked forward to reviewing it. Surprisingly, this fish had me critically thinking about what makes a tin good or bad. I’m feeling a little conflicted, but here’s my review:

Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Salmon lives up to its name as a very mildly smoked fish. It’s visibly very fatty upon opening the tin, which lends to a very soft, moist texture. The texture is the best part of this fish, unfortunately. The flavor falls flat in this tin - the can is labeled to be “applewood smoked,” which doesn’t seem to come through in the fish. It’s packed in a pretty unflavorful olive oil, which can be good or bad depending on what you’re going for.

Alone, this fish is pretty unimpressive, but it really shines as a vehicle. Use this fish when you don’t want to overshadow a fun condiment or cracker. Pull out your stash and try it out with this fish! Try something tangy, spicy, or savory to cut the fattiness of the salmon - I enjoyed it with a grainy mustard and some kewpie mayo. Try mixing it into a rice bowl or a fishy dip. Pair it with a seeded cracker or a piece of crispbread. And of course, it’s also delicious with cream cheese. It really pairs well with most things.

I’m sorry it looks like cat food

This smoked salmon doesn’t have much of a leg to stand on (or a fin to swim with?), but it’s a fine tin to keep in your kitchen cabinet. I probably wouldn’t eat it again on its own but will use it to help whip up a quick meal. Is texture enough to hold up a tin? Give it a try and let me know.

Rating: ★★

photos by Aaron Barton