Ventresca is the prized belly cut of bonito del norte, loved for its delicate layers and lush, almost melting texture. La Curiosa gives this white tuna a gentle smoke before preserving it in olive oil. The result is a striking conserva: rich but balanced, with an elegant smoky note that complements the fish instead of hiding it. It is a special tin for occasions when a simple plate deserves to feel extraordinary.

Open the tin a few minutes before serving and bring the fish toward room temperature so the olive oil can loosen and the aroma can emerge. Lift the belly pieces carefully with a fork and lay them on warm, lightly toasted bread. A thin strip of roasted piquillo pepper, a few drops of lemon and a scatter of chives make a beautiful first bite. For a more substantial dish, arrange the tuna over white beans and ripe tomatoes, or finish a warm potato salad with a spoonful of the oil from the tin.

Serving & pairing

A cool Albariño is a natural partner: its citrus and saline freshness meet the richness of the belly and leave the subtle smoke in focus. Dry fino Sherry also has the clarity for a classic tapas pairing. If you prefer a red, try a lightly chilled, delicate Mencía and keep the accompaniments simple.

Product details

La Curiosa identifies this as smoked bonito del norte belly, Thunnus alalunga, in olive oil. It contains fish. Enjoy it as the centrepiece of a conserva tasting with olives, bread and a second tin with a brighter flavour. Check the package for exact ingredients, net weight and complete allergen details.

Rosara's Bonito del Norte is a classic Spanish conserva on a generous scale. The producer selects fresh white tuna from the Cantabrian Sea and packs hand cut loins in olive oil. These are natural pieces of fish, with a tender, juicy texture and the clean, mild flavour that makes bonito del norte so versatile. The large 445 ml glass jar lets the loins take centre stage and gives you enough to build an entire meal around the fish.

Serve the bonito at room temperature and lift it carefully from the jar to keep the pieces intact. Arrange it over sliced tomato with piquillo peppers, green olives and a spoonful of its own oil. It also makes a memorable ensaladilla rusa, a composed salad with white beans and red onion, or generous tapas on toasted bread. A squeeze of lemon or a little Sherry vinegar will brighten the plate; start lightly, as the fish is delicious with very little added.

Serving & pairing

Open an Albariño, a dry Txakoli or a crisp Verdejo for a maritime pairing. The wine's acidity cuts through the olive oil while letting the delicate bonito remain the focus. A chilled dry fino Sherry also works beautifully if this is part of a tapas spread with olives and salted almonds. Pair with Rosara piquillo peppers for a particularly Spanish plate.

Product details

The producer lists bonito del norte, olive oil and salt. Contains fish and is listed as gluten free. Jar capacity is 445 ml, net weight 400 g and drained weight 260 g. Refrigerate any remaining fish under its oil after opening and follow the jar's storage directions.