The return of the Nordic Sardine
The "brisling" is a small fish with a long tradition: in the past, it was caught in large quantities along the coasts of Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea, processed by hand, preserved in tins, and sold as the Nordic version of the sardine. In fact, however, these small fish are not sardines but sprats. They look similar, but are slightly smaller. Sprats also have much in common with sardines when it comes to nutritional value: these small fish are rich in valuable nutrients such as omega-3 or vitamin D, for which sardines are also prized. Especially in Northern Germany, sprats are still considered a popular snack that can be eaten whole thanks to their fine bones.
With BRISLING No. 1, FANGST is reviving this tradition and giving the sprat back its original place as the "Nordic sardine." To achieve this, the sprats are gently smoked, packed in cold-pressed organic rapeseed oil, and delicately infused with heather and chamomile.
FANGST stands for Scandinavian seafood culture and modern canned fish, produced with respect for nature, the culinary heritage of the North, and culinary craft. The Danish brand's aim is not to make seafood more complex: the focus is on the natural character of the products, which is highlighted by a few carefully selected ingredients. The goal is uncomplicated enjoyment, for example shared around a table with friends – what FANGST calls “Nordic style tapas”.
With BRISLING No. 1, the smoky aroma is kept deliberately subtle so that it frames the flavor of the fish rather than overpowering it. Heather and chamomile provide delicate floral and herbal notes. The fish are then placed by hand in cold-pressed rapeseed oil. The result is golden, glistening fish with tender, succulent flesh. Enjoying the smoked sprats requires no elaborate preparation: simply enjoy the fine fish directly from the tin, on toasted sourdough or rye bread, or with a salad on the side.