Sardines

Marks & Spencer Portuguese Sardines in Olive Oil

120 grams for HK$23, Marks & Spencer

These sardines were caught in the northeast Atlantic Ocean and are certified sustainable seafood. Thick and chunky, there are three pieces in each tin, without skins.

Verdict: a tad overcooked, fishy, and too many bones and scales.

Connetable Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Espelette Chillies

115 grams for HK$40, City'super

Smaller in size than Marks & Spencer's sardines, these fish from Brittany swim in a sea of red seedless Espelette peppers, which hail from the French commune of the same name.

Verdict: surprisingly fresh and non-fishy, and the chillies add a subtle kick.

Les Belles de Camargue Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil

115 grams for HK$68, Premiere Pression Provence

Olives are an intrinsic part of everyday life in France's Provence region, where these sardines - and the olive oil they're covered in - are produced.

Verdict: the olive oil is delicate and doesn't overpower the fresh and flaky meat, but too many scales get in the way.