A Galician delicacy with an exciting kick. For those who like their food with a little extra heat, the Sardinillas Picantes from Real Conservera Española are an absolute must. Here, the traditional craftsmanship of northern Spain meets the perfect, delicate heat of a carefully selected chili pepper (guindilla).

Masterful craftsmanship for the perfect texture

The secret of this gourmet conserve begins with the selection of the fish: Only the smallest and most tender sardinillas (Sardina pilchardus) make the cut. The women of the cannery (artesanas) clean each tiny fish by hand.

To ensure that the sardinillas retain their wonderful, compact shape in the oil, they are gently toasted (tostadas) according to centuries-old Galician tradition. Only then are they placed in pure olive oil, with a fine, fiery guindilla added as the perfect finishing touch.

An addictive interplay of flavors

During the curing period in the can, the small chili slowly releases its fiery oils into the premium olive oil. The result is brilliant: The heat does not overpower the fish's delicate flavor, but enhances it. You first experience the pure, intense taste of the sea and the creamy texture of the sardine – followed by a pleasantly warm, subtly spicy finish on the palate.

Serving suggestions:

These sardinillas are a wonderfully simple luxury food.

• The classic tapa: Place the fish on rustic toast that has been spread with a little salted butter or fresh tomato. Paper-thin rings of raw onion provide the perfect contrast to the heat.

• As a savory topping: Spoon the sardinillas (including the spicy olive oil from the can!) over a simple pasta (aglio e olio) or on a freshly baked pizza.

• Wine pairing: A full-bodied, chilled white wine or – as a real insider tip – a well-chilled, slightly bitter cerveza (Spanish beer) is the perfect accompaniment!

• 10–14 pieces
• Net weight: 112 g
• Drained weight: 78.4 g