Ortiz Atlantic Marinated White Tuna (82g)

Ortiz Atlantic Marinated White Tuna showcases one of Spain’s most ancient and revered preservation techniques, escabeche, a method that transforms premium seafood into an extraordinary culinary experience. This exceptional product combines the legendary quality of Ortiz bonito del norte with a traditional wine vinegar marinade, creating a distinctive flavour profile that has captivated Spanish palates for generations.

The story of escabeche stretches back centuries to when Mediterranean and Arab cultures developed ingenious methods to preserve their catches long before refrigeration existed. The word itself derives from the Arabic sikbaj, referring to dishes cooked in vinegar. In Spain, this technique evolved into both a practical preservation method and a celebrated culinary art. Ortiz’s connection to escabeche runs particularly deep, with the family’s ancestors working with this technique in the Basque fishing villages of Mutriku and Ondarroa since 1850, more than 40 years before the company’s official founding.

The foundation of this product is the same exceptional Atlantic white tuna that has made Ortiz famous worldwide. Each fish is individually line-caught during the summer coastal fishing season in the pristine waters of the Cantabrian Sea. Using traditional pole and line methods with live bait, experienced fishermen pull the tuna one by one, a selective technique that guarantees both superior freshness and environmental sustainability. This careful approach allows only the finest specimens to be selected whilst protecting marine ecosystems and eliminating wasteful bycatch.

Once landed, the tuna undergoes the same meticulous hand-preparation that has defined Ortiz’s reputation since 1891. Skilled artisans carefully prepare each fish, selecting only the prime loins. The tuna is then cooked and packed by hand before being covered with the house escabeche, a carefully balanced mixture of wine vinegar, olive oil and salt. This traditional marinade works its magic over time, the acidity gently tenderising the fish whilst imparting a complex, tangy flavour that perfectly complements the tuna’s natural sweetness.

Nutritional Excellence

Ortiz marinated white tuna delivers outstanding nutritional benefits alongside its distinctive taste. The fish remains an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce blood triglycerides and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of Omega-3-rich fish has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and improved brain function.

With an impressive 28 grams of high-quality protein per 100 grams and zero carbohydrates or sugars, this tuna provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and overall health. It remains low in saturated fat whilst offering excellent levels of vitamin B12, vital for red blood cell formation and nervous system function. The vinegar marinade itself may offer additional health benefits, with studies suggesting that vinegar consumption can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

Tradition Meets Sustainability

Conservas Ortiz has championed sustainable fishing practices since long before it became fashionable. The company’s exclusive commitment to traditional pole and line fishing methods demonstrates deep respect for marine ecosystems and the natural rhythms of the sea. By fishing selectively, one tuna at a time, and only during the appropriate coastal season, Ortiz ensures the continued health of fish populations and marine habitats. This dedication to responsible practices, combined with over 130 years of artisanal expertise, has earned the company recognition as official suppliers to the Vatican and Spain’s royal family.

How the Spanish Enjoy Marinated White Tuna

Bonito del norte en escabeche (marinated white tuna) is experiencing a renaissance after years as a beloved but somewhat traditional dish. Spanish families have long cherished it as a nostalgic taste of childhood, often enjoyed at grandparents’ homes during summer visits to coastal regions.

Today, innovative chefs across Madrid, Barcelona and San Sebastián are rediscovering and reimagining this classic preparation. The traditional way to serve it remains popular: chilled or at room temperature, straight from the tin with the flavourful marinade drizzled over everything.

Spaniards often enjoy it as part of a simple salad with boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs and crisp lettuce, all dressed with the tangy escabeche liquid. In contemporary pintxo bars, you’ll find it served on toasted bread with roasted peppers or topped with caramelised onions and manchego cheese.

Many home cooks use the leftover marinade as a vinaigrette for green salads or roasted vegetables, ensuring not a drop goes to waste. The key is to embrace the bold, tangy flavours and serve the tuna chilled, allowing its firm texture and complex taste to take centre stage.