Best Supermarket Anchovies: Tasted and Rated for 2025 2026

Best supermarket anchovies can transform a simple pizza or salad into a gourmet delight, but not all tins are created equal. In our comprehensive taste test, we sampled 10 popular brands to find the finest fillets for your money. From salty, tough disappointments to velvety, jamón-like treasures, here’s our expert rating.

Why Anchovy Quality Varies So Much

The anchovy supply chain is under pressure. El Niño has disrupted fishing in Peru, where many budget anchovies originate, while premium Cantabrian Sea anchovies face supply shortages. This has driven up prices and led to inconsistent quality on supermarket shelves. Understanding what makes a great anchovy—juicy, plump, and sweet with a nutty undertone—is key to choosing well.

What to Look For in Premium Anchovies

According to food journalist Sudi Pigott, author of Consider the Anchovy, the best anchovies are “juicy, plump and velvety, with a sweet, nutty taste of jamón!” Appearance matters too: look for rose-colored fillets that are evenly sized and free from excessive salt crystals. Texture should be creamy, with minimal pin bones.

Our Top Picks: Best Supermarket Anchovies

We rated each brand on appearance, texture (including bones), flavor, and value. Here are the standouts:

The Best Overall: Waitrose No.1 Cantabrian Anchovies

Our winner was Waitrose No.1 Cantabrian anchovy fillets in extra-virgin olive oil. Priced at £1.75 for 50g, these small, dusky-pink fillets delivered a seductively sweet and salty flavor that was perfectly balanced. The texture was creamy and soft, with only a few hairy bones. Sourced from the north-east Atlantic and MSC certified, they’re a premium choice for anchovy lovers.

The Best Bargain: Tesco Finest Cantabrian Anchovies

For budget-conscious shoppers, Tesco Finest Cantabrian anchovy fillets offer great value at £2.95 per 100g. These medium-large fillets have a smooth, rich umami taste, though they’re a bit saltier and include some bones. Cured for at least 12 months and MSC certified, they’re a solid everyday option.

Key Takeaways for Anchovy Shoppers

• Opt for Cantabrian Sea anchovies for superior flavor and texture.
• Check for MSC certification to ensure sustainable sourcing.
• Expect to pay more for premium quality—it’s worth it.
• Look for plump, rose-colored fillets with minimal bones.
• Avoid overly salty or brown fillets, which indicate poor curing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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