Conservas Catalina

At Conservas Catalina, they have always crafted Anchoas de Santoña preserves in an artisanal and meticulous manner for a select clientele. However, the quality of their products and their method of production led to an increasing demand. This is how, several years ago, Conservas Catalina decided to introduce their products to the market: Cantabrian Anchovies, tuna, with the same care and dedication as before. Their production is limited, but each product has exceptional quality... we hope you enjoy them.

Conservas Catalina produces its products as traditionally done since the Italian era in Santoña, coastal fishing from the Cantabrian Sea, Anchovies in Brine, and handmade production. An excellent product!

Conservas Catalina from Santoña

The history of Conservas Catalina begins each spring when the waters of the Cantabrian Sea come to life. It is then that our anchovies begin their journey, from local auctions to our factory, where they undergo a meticulous salting process that lasts between six and nine months. Once matured, each anchovy is treated with the utmost care: removing its skin and excess salt, washed and dried by the skilled hands of the women of Santoña, and finally filleted and packed with the finest olive oil.

Our flagship product, the Santoña Anchovy, is the result of careful fishing and an artisanal process that ensures superior taste, distinctive colour, and a texture and touch of salt that captivates from the first taste. From the moment the fish is auctioned to its final transformation in our factory, every step is imbued with tradition and passion.

Anchoas Catalina is more than a name; it is a promise of quality, taste, and tradition. We invite the most discerning palates to discover why our anchovies are celebrated worldwide.

Anchoas Catalina has not only been recognised in Italy; they have also captured the attention and palate of judges in Paris, winning the gold medal at the Singapore Taste Awards 2019, a achievement that opens doors in the competitive Asian market and underscores the global appreciation for Spanish quality.

With five consecutive years of awards at the Great Taste Awards and acclaim as being considered one of the world's best foods by English critics, Anchoas Catalina has set a standard of excellence. In 2018, our ECO selection of Cantabrian Anchovies received the highest distinction of three stars at the Superior Taste Award, reflecting a product that exceeds 90% in scoring and stands out as exceptional.

In the heart of Italy, at an event celebrating the best of global flavour, Anchoas Catalina has shone brightly, taking first place at the prestigious INTERNATIONAL TASTE AWARDS. This accolade not only honours the exceptional taste of our premium anchovies but also highlights the art and dedication behind each can.

Imagine a panel of ten experts, each with a refined palate, delighting in the intensity, olfactory balance, and fresh sea flavour of our Premium Catalina Anchovies. It has been the artisanal techniques, impeccable cleanliness, and supreme quality of the ingredients that have taken their breath away, confirming that when it comes to high-end anchovies, Catalina is synonymous with excellence.

What is a Catalina 00 anchovy?

When referring to a 00 anchovy, it denotes a large-sized anchovy. Although this denomination has not been used to define anchovy size since 2018, colloquially, people still refer to large anchovies as “00”. This type of anchovy is difficult to obtain as it is rare and found in small quantities.

At Anchoas Catalina, they have released a special edition named “Reserva Catalina” for their 20th anniversary. This can contains larger anchovies, retaining some of their skin, with a great flavour.

Additionally, the extra-large format known as high restoration also contains larger anchovies from Conservas Catalina.

Which Conservas Catalina format is best?

Choosing which Conservas Catalina anchovy format to buy is easier than it seems. It is true that Conservas Catalina offers a wide variety of formats, from the 50-gram octavillo to the 250-gram pandereta, but the anchovy is the same in all formats. In other words, all cans are prepared with Cantabrian anchovy from Santoña, completely free of bones and scales, and at the right level of salt.

The difference between formats, excluding the high restoration format with about 14 larger fillets, is the number of fillets in each can. For one person, the recommended format is the octavillo, 50 g, which contains about 6-8 Catalina anchovies.

If it is for two people who like to eat a lot, the ideal Conservas Catalina format is the double octavillo, 90 g with 14/16 fillets, or the high restoration format with the same number of fillets but larger. These formats are suitable for 3 people or even 4 if used as a small appetizer.

For larger groups, the pandereta formats (round can) are recommended, where you can choose between the 180 g can with 24/26 Catalina anchovy fillets and the 250 g can with 34/36 anchovies.

How to store Anchoas Catalina?

Anchoas Catalina should be kept in the fridge. Santoña anchovies are a semi-preserve, so they need cold storage for proper preservation.

The main enemies of anchovies are heat, light, and oxygen. To combat them, it is recommended to follow these steps:

1. Choose canned formats over glass jars. The can protects from light and ensures a longer shelf life for the anchovies.

2. Open the format you will consume. Once the can is opened, it is advisable to finish it and not keep it open. Once opened, the anchovies come into contact with oxygen and gradually lose properties. Therefore, it is always better to choose the format you will use and, if there are leftovers, eat them within a few hours.

3. Always store them in the fridge. Salt and oil may solidify due to the cold, so it is recommended to take them out of the fridge about 20 minutes before consuming, so the salt and oil dissolve, and the anchovies are at their optimal point when enjoyed.

Detailed Artisanal Process

At AnchoasDeluxe, our Catalina anchovies are produced using a completely artisanal method. We carefully select our spring season catches from the Cantabrian Sea, notable for their superior size and unique colour, flavour, texture, and salt balance. The fish is purchased directly from local auctions and transported to our facilities to begin a meticulous production process.

Maturation and Excellence Period

The treatment of Catalina anchovies at AnchoasDeluxe begins with gutting and salting, followed by a six to nine-month brining period, essential for their perfect maturation. The expert artisans of Santoña then proceed with desalting, cleaning, and drying each anchovy, removing the skin and adjusting the salt level before delicately filleting and packing them in olive oil.

Exclusive Reserva Catalina

The Reserva Catalina from AnchoasDeluxe is a premium selection, derived from a fresh and exceptional catch of 25/26 grains per kilo, a rarity in the industry. This product has been cured in brine for over two years, ensuring careful and prolonged maturation, preserving part of its silvery skin to enhance its appearance and texture.

Organic Anchovies in Olive Oil

AnchoasDeluxe is proud to offer organic anchovies, sourced from spring catches and processed individually. These are canned in organic extra virgin olive oil, recognised with three stars for their exceptional flavour.

Explore the superiority of our Catalina anchovies at AnchoasDeluxe and discover why they are considered the best anchovies worldwide.

Conservas Catalina: Tradition and Excellence in Every Bite

At Conservas Catalina, our passion for the sea and tradition is reflected in each of our products. From our renowned Cantabrian anchovies to the exquisite northern bonito, every preserve is a tribute to quality and authentic taste.

The Cantabrian Anchovy: Our Star Product

The Cantabrian Anchovy: Our Star Product

The Cantabrian anchovy is undoubtedly our star product. Made from carefully selected catches during the spring season in the Cantabrian Sea, our anchovies are distinguished by their calibre, colour, incomparable texture, and a perfect amount of salt that sets them apart on the palate. Each anchovy is worked on by hand, one by one, with care and dedication that is evident in every bite.

We purchase our own fish at the auctions of the fishing guilds and transport it to our factory, where a delicate process begins. The anchovies are headed, salted, and left to cure for a period of six to nine months. This slow and careful maturation is essential to develop their unique flavour. Then, the expert hands of the women from Santoña clean, dry, and fillet them meticulously before packing them in olive oil, creating a product of exceptional quality.

Varieties of Anchovies at Conservas Catalina

The Catalina anchovies are available in three varieties that delight the most discerning palates: in olive oil, smoked, and in butter.

Anchovies in Olive Oil

These anchovies are preserved in high-quality olive oil that enhances the natural flavour of the fish without overshadowing it. They are smooth on the palate, with a tender and juicy texture that melts in the mouth. The olive oil adds a velvety and light touch, perfectly balancing the characteristic salty flavour of the anchovies, making them ideal for enjoying on toast or accompanied by a fresh salad.

Smoked Anchovies

This type of anchovy offers a different experience, with a deep and intense flavour due to the smoking process. The aroma of these anchovies is reminiscent of wood smoke, adding a warm and slightly sweet touch. Their texture is firm and compact, making them a perfect treat for tasting at appetizers or combined with artisan cheeses and breads. The smoking enhances the complexity of the flavour while maintaining the essence of fresh anchovies.

Anchovies in Butter

The Catalina anchovies in butter are a true luxury for the senses. Preserved in creamy and delicate butter, these anchovies have a softer and more rounded flavour, where the natural saltiness of the fish blends with the smoothness and sweetness of the butter. This combination provides a silky texture that enhances the enjoyment in every bite. They are perfect for spreading on crisp breads or adding a refined touch to pasta dishes or risottos.

Each type of anchovy offers a unique experience, catering to different tastes and occasions, but always maintaining the quality and tradition that characterises Anchovies Catalina.

Northern Bonito Catalina: A Pleasure for the Senses

Northern Bonito Catalina: A Pleasure for the Senses

The Northern Bonito from Conservas Catalina is another of our flagship products, a true delicacy that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Caught by rod, one by one, using the traditional cacea method during the summer fishing season, this product is an example of selective and environmentally respectful fishing. Each piece of bonito is a delight for the senses, perfect for any occasion.

Reserva Catalina: Exclusivity in a Can

Reserva Catalina: Exclusivity in a Can

Our Reserva Catalina is a very special and exclusive selection. These anchovies come from a fresh catch of 25/26 grains per kilo, a rarity in the fishing season. They have matured slowly for over two years at a constant temperature, giving them a unique colour, aroma, and flavour. They retain part of their silver skin, which enhances their texture and makes them a visually appealing and exceptional product in taste.

Anchovies in Organic Olive Oil: An Award-Winning Flavour

Anchovies in Organic Olive Oil: An Award-Winning Flavour

The anchovies in organic olive oil from Conservas Catalina are the result of artisanal production with spring catches and traditional fishing techniques that respect the environment. Packed in extra virgin organic olive oil, these anchovies have been awarded three stars at the Superior Taste Award in 2017 and 2018, confirming their extraordinary flavour and superior quality. These anchovies have been recognised as best anchovies in blind tastings at the Cantabria Anchovy and Preserves Fair in 2024, 2015, and 2014, and have achieved the prestigious Top 50 in the Great Taste Awards for six consecutive years, as well as at other international events like the Singapore Taste Awards and the ITA Awards.

Commitment to Sustainability

At Conservas Catalina, sustainability is a fundamental pillar. Our fishing techniques are selective and environmentally respectful, ensuring that every catch is made responsibly. Additionally, we use recyclable packaging and practice production that minimises environmental impact, reflecting our commitment to the planet.

Conservas Catalina, located in Santoña, is one of the most prestigious companies in the production of high-quality preserves. Its dedication to excellence has been recognised both nationally and internationally, consolidating its position in the gourmet market.

Awards and Accolades of Conservas Catalina

Over the years, Conservas Catalina has received numerous awards and accolades that attest to the quality of its products and its commitment to tradition and innovation. Among the most notable is the prestigious Great Taste Award, known as the "Oscar" of gastronomy, which has honoured several of its preserves for their taste and excellence.

Additionally, it has been recognised at various international food fairs such as SIAL and Anuga, where it has received special mentions for the authenticity and quality of its products. These recognitions not only bolster the reputation of Conservas Catalina, but also assure consumers that they are purchasing top-tier products.

The company has also been awarded the title of Best Anchovy Preserve from Santoña on several occasions, a title that highlights the dedication and expertise that Conservas Catalina invests in each stage of production, from fish selection to final packaging.

These awards are the result of years of hard work, passion for preserving traditions, and an unwavering commitment to quality. By choosing Conservas Catalina, customers are not only enjoying a gourmet product, but also supporting a company with a proven track record of excellence.

Conservas Catalina are a gastronomic gem that can be enjoyed in many ways in the kitchen. These gourmet preserves, made with the highest quality ingredients, are perfect for creating simple yet flavourful dishes. Below, we offer some ideas and suggestions for making the most of each product.

Recipes with Conservas Catalina

Conservas Catalina stands out for its authenticity and intense flavour, making it the perfect addition to salads, tapas, and main dishes. Here are some recipes you might like to try:

• Tuna Belly Salad with Roasted Peppers: Mix tuna belly from Conservas Catalina with roasted peppers, a touch of extra virgin olive oil, and fresh rocket leaves. This simple yet delicious combination is ideal as a starter or a light dinner.
• Pickled Mussels with Toasted Bread: Serve pickled mussels on slices of toasted bread and garnish with a little chopped fresh parsley. A quick and sophisticated appetizer.
• Sardines in Tomato Sauce on Boiled Potatoes: Place sardines in tomato sauce from Conservas Catalina on a base of boiled potatoes. Add a pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavours.

Usage Suggestions

In addition to the recipes, Conservas Catalina can be used in many other ways. For example:

• Tapas and Skewers: Conservas Catalina preserves are perfect for creating a variety of tapas and skewers that will impress your guests. Experiment with different ingredient combinations to find your favourite.
• Pasta Companion: Add a tin of preserves to your favourite pasta dish to give it a special touch. Try sardines in tomato sauce or tuna belly in pasta salads.
• Salads: Give your salads a twist by adding tuna belly, pickled mussels, or bonito del norte. These preserves add a deep flavour and irresistible texture.

With Conservas Catalina, every meal becomes a unique gastronomic experience, full of tradition and quality. Explore the possibilities and let your culinary creativity flourish with these exceptional products.

Conservas Catalina is more than just a canning brand; it is a local economic engine and a symbol of the rich gastronomic culture of Santoña. By choosing products from Conservas Catalina, you are not only enjoying an exceptional quality product but also contributing to the economic development of the region. Each purchase supports the local families and workers who have dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of canning.

Local Economic Impact

Conservas Catalina employs artisans and workers from the region, generating a direct positive impact on the local economy. By keeping alive the tradition of fishing and artisanal production, this company not only preserves jobs but also ensures the continuation of sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations.

Santoña's Gastronomic Culture

The tradition of preserves in Santoña is an integral part of the region's cultural identity, and Conservas Catalina is a fundamental pillar in this tradition. Its products capture the authentic flavours of the Cantabrian Sea, using traditional methods that respect the natural taste of each ingredient. This commitment to quality and authenticity makes each tin of Conservas Catalina a celebration of the region's rich gastronomic heritage.