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.
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
🐟 Oil Packed #4
for it to be an unimpressive tin of fish... the pictures alone make me want to try it.