🐟 Oil Packed #8

There's something special about this fish

Eagle Coin Spicy Fried Dace with Salted Black Beans

Price: $4.99
Weight: 184g
Texture: Hard / Jerky
Taste: Sweet n’ spicy
Pair with: Rice and bitter greens

I love nostalgic foods. You might think back to your childhood when you eat meatloaf. Every time I eat a can of smoked sprats, I feel happy. Many people feel this same way about Canned Dace. As a staple in many Chinese households for an easy dinner, there’s a lot of love for this fish.

Eagle Coin Spicy Fried Dace is a funky sweet n’ savory fish. There are two huge fish per can packed in soybean oil alongside delicious, salted, fermented black beans (also known as douchi), chili powder, and other toasty, mellow, aromatic spices (five-spice, probably). The warmth in the fish itself is pretty mild, but the beans are spicy and tangy. This dace has a jerky-like texture, with a spine and tail you can pull out cartoon style (or eat)! Though the texture is firm (you’re gonna need a knife), this fish is far from dry - the oil keeps it moist and juicy. It’s pleasantly, lightly sweet with a luscious, mature flavor that keeps you wanting more.

The easiest way to enjoy canned dace is (1) make rice, (2) open can, (3) dump can over rice, (4) eat! There’s just enough oil and beans in the can to flavor your rice, or you can add some chili crisp on top for some extra heat. This fish is delicious alongside lightly cooked vegetables - I loved it with blanched collard and mustard greens.

There’s something special about this fish. It’s loved by many, and it makes for a delightfully easy and tasty meal. It’s a weeknight savior and a great staple for your can cabinet. You can find Eagle Coin Spicy Fried Dace at your local Chinese supermarket or online retailers like Rainbow Tomatoes Garden.

Big thanks to Will for the recommendation on this tin!

Rating: ★★★★.5

photos by Aaron Barton