Pinhais Sardines in Tomato Sauce – Portuguese Tinned Sardines

Some recipes are protected for a reason — and Pinhais sardines in tomato sauce are one of them.

Since 1920, Conservas Pinhais has safeguarded a secret tomato sauce recipe known only to a few. Slow-simmered and balanced with care, the sauce gently coats each wild-caught sardine, enhancing rather than overpowering. The result is deeply flavorful tinned sardines that taste unmistakably traditional.

Each tin is hand-packed in Portugal, following a three-generation family legacy. The sardines are individually pre-cooked to preserve tender flesh, delicate skin, and fine edible bones. These aren’t just ordinary sardines in a can — they are crafted with precision, patience, and pride.

Open a tin of Pinhais sardines and you’ll notice the difference immediately: the aroma of tomato and olive oil, the careful placement of each fish, the unmistakable taste of heritage.

What Makes It Special

• Authentic Pinhais sardines in tomato sauce
• Wild-caught sardines hand-packed in Portugal
• Secret 1920 family tomato sauce recipe
• Individually pre-cooked for perfect texture
• Simple, honest ingredients: sardines, tomato pulp, olive oil, salt
• A century of Portuguese fish-preserving tradition

How to Enjoy

• Layer over warm crusty bread
• Add to pasta with fresh herbs and olive oil
• Serve alongside cheese and olives for a Mediterranean spread
• Fold into salads for rich, savory depth
• Enjoy straight from the tin — simply and beautifully

The Story Behind

PINHAIS represents one of Portugal’s most respected artisanal fish preserve houses. Since 1920, Conservas Pinhais has preserved its secret tomato sauce recipe — passed carefully from one generation of women to the next.

Every tin of Pinhais sardines reflects over 100 years of craftsmanship. The process remains largely manual, honoring tradition while delivering exceptional quality. What you’re tasting is more than sardines in tomato sauce — it’s heritage, protected and perfected over time.