1. Sardines – Did you know there are over 20 types of fish that can be called sardines? I didn’t but John shine was happy to fill me in on the details in a recent meeting we had.
It’s a short season and he only catches them (spratus spratus) when in good condition. Last year he caught them in Donegal Bay and there will be 6-14 in each tin on our shelves shortly. John has all the landing certs for his fish so the origin can be traced. They have to be sent to Scotland to be canned as there isn’t a facility here.
Nutritional benefits – Sardines contain natural Omega 3, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Calcium and a high source of protein.
Uses: It couldn’t be easier, I simply open the tin and have it for lunch with whatever salads I have (e.g tabbouleh, quinoa, lentil or chickpea salads) or a slice of crispy sourdough toast. Before I was sent samples I hadn’t tried the tomato one but this is now my favourite! My second option is the olive oil version.
Cost: €2.50 per single portion tin (€1.88 with discount)
2. Mackerel –I like to buy fresh mackerel when in season but the rest of the year I love the tinned mackerel from Shine’s. Shine’s mackerel fillets are skinless and boneless and they only use North East Atlantic winter mackerel (scomber scombrus) in their ready to eat tins.
Nutritional Benefits: Mackerel’s key nutrients benefits are Omega 3, Vitamin D , Vitamin B12 – as well as being high in Protein and low in Carbs.
Uses: As for the sardine’s, I like to open the mackerel tin and have a nutritious lunch with whatever I have to hand, salad or sourdough toast usually. My favourite is the tomato one, a well balanced light tomato sauce and second option is the Olive oil one.
Cost: €2.50 per single portion tin (€1.88 with discount)
3.. Tuna – So there is a range of Tuna fish here from Ventresca – belly of the tuna (melt in the mouth delicate, premium product) to Wild Irish Albacore Tuna to Wild Yellowfin Tuna and the prices vary accordingly. There is lots of information on The Shine's Website about the fish and their commitment to sustainable fishing. They have tuna in spring water or olive oil depending on your preferences.
Nutritional information – Tuna is a great source of protein and very versatile
Uses – Once you try it you won't go back – they even offer a money back guarantee! I love using it on its own with salads like above or in a tuna melt, tuna fritters, stuffed aubergine, tacos, , chilli tuna with pasta, courgette and peppers for a quick meal or for a special occasion, ventresca on a bruschetta
Cost : €9.95 for 111g tin Ventresca ( €7.46 with discount) – this a delicacy!
€7 for a 185g jar (€5.25 with discount) Wild Irish Tuna or Yellowfin tuna
€4 Irish Tuna tin portion (€3 with discount)
€3.50 Yellowfin tuna tin portion (€2.60 with discount)
They also have a lovely vinegar 'Chip mate' and larger catering packs of yellowfin tuna or large jars of Wild Irish Tuna, as well as gift boxes and vouchers.
