Israel Romero / Thursday, April 10, 2025 / Categories: Blog Why are Cantabrian (Spanish) 00 anchovies so highly prized? One of those wonders we export from Spain to the world, Cantabrian anchovy, a truly inimitable and recognizable marvel, wherever you go. Made in Spain Gourmet explains how to recognize it, demand it, and what to pair it with. Characteristics of Cantabrian "00" anchovies What you need to know to recognize a Cantabrian "00" anchovy The perfect pairing for Cantabrian "00" anchovies Beverages to accompany Gastronomic combinations The anchovy selection from Made in Spain Gourmet Characteristics of Cantabrian "00" anchovies Remember that there are no bad anchovies and good anchovies, but rather different flavors and aromas depending on the product’s development, its maturation process, and its journey through the sea. Cantabrian "00" anchovies are a gourmet product, considered high quality (we could say top quality) among canned anchovies. Here I explain their characteristics: "00" (double zero): This classification indicates the largest size and thickness of the anchovy within the categories for this canned fish. The larger it is, the more valued it becomes. Cantabrian origin: They come from the Cantabrian Sea, one of the most prestigious areas for fishing the bocarte (Engraulis encrasicolus), the species from which the anchovy is obtained. Artisanal production: They are made through a traditional process that includes salting, curing, and the manual cleaning of each fillet. They are matured between 6 and 12 months to achieve an intense, balanced flavor. Taste and texture: These are meaty anchovies, with a firm texture and an intense flavor, due to the quality of the fish and the preservation method, usually in olive oil, which enhances their flavor and keeps their texture juicy. What you need to know to recognize a Cantabrian "00" anchovy And if after the characteristics I’ve explained you want to know more, this is what you should look at when choosing one anchovy over another: Has a uniform color with an intense reddish-brown tone. No blood or skin marks and with the central bone barely visible. Elongated shape, not excessively trimmed nor too large. Those measuring around 13 centimeters are the best. The texture of the fillets should be smooth and chewable. The thickness must be consistent with the fillet size. If a small fillet looks very thin, it means it was flattened too much to appear larger. Should have a mild saltiness. Its aroma should be of the sea, not of fresh fish. Of course, free of bones, and not prickly when placed in the mouth. In terms of flavor: it should be intense, leaving a pleasant sea aftertaste that lingers. Should have the right amount of fat, which is achieved when caught during the seasonal spring fishery, the best time to harvest them because they have more fat and flavor. Traditional fishing methods are generally used to preserve the quality of the fish. The perfect pairing for Cantabrian "00" anchovies Cantabrian "00" anchovies have an intense umami flavor with a salty note that pairs wonderfully with certain foods and drinks. Here are some suggestions for the perfect pairing. Beverages to accompany Dry white wines: Albariño, Verdejo, Txakoli, or a good unoaked Chardonnay. Their acidity balances the anchovy’s saltiness. Sparkling wines: Cava, whose bubbles and freshness cleanse the palate. Manzanilla or Fino sherry: Their dry, light character enhances the anchovy’s flavor. Gastronomic combinations Bread with butter: The creaminess of good butter softens the anchovy’s potency. Pan con tomate (Pa amb tomàquet): A Catalan classic that highlights the intensity of the fish, with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Creamy cheeses: Burrata, mozzarella, or fresh goat or cow cheeses that add smoothness. Tomato salads: The sweetness of the tomato balances the anchovy’s saltiness. Piparras (pickled green peppers): Their acidity and slight heat complement the flavor. Avocado: Its creaminess pairs perfectly with the anchovy’s saline flavor. If you want an even more gourmet experience, try anchovies on a base of cooked potato with a touch of extra virgin olive oil and black pepper. Exquisite! The anchovy selection from Made in Spain Gourmet We are very proud of the selection of anchovies we have in our shop, for every taste, but above all, high quality and nothing more — simply the best. The Cantabrian "00" anchovy is superior, unbeatable and 100% Spanish — don’t be fooled! Revilla, Agromar, Casa Santoña and Chabuca are your Spanish premium anchovies. Sorry, I can’t help you choose… I like them all! AUTHOR: Israel Romero, CEO of Made in Spain Gourmet. Why does our store operate in Europe? Vins El Cep: Premium Cavas that define the Penedès tradition since 1448 Print 3 Rate this article: No rating Please login or register to post comments.