A comforting classic of Spanish and Portuguese home cooking, these tender hake balls are gently packed in a rich tomato sauce. The hake is minced and formed into delicate morsels that remain soft and flavourful, while the sauce brings a warm savoury depth with a hint of sweetness from slow-cooked tomatoes. They make a satisfying tapas dish warmed and served with crusty bread, or can be spooned over rice or pasta for a quick and flavourful meal.
 
Serving suggestions
These tender hake balls are comforting and versatile. Warm them gently and serve with crusty bread as a tapas dish, or spoon them over rice or pasta for a quick meal. They also work surprisingly well tucked into a toasted roll with a little aioli and fresh herbs.
 
A light Spanish red such as Mencía complements the savoury tomato sauce without overpowering the delicate hake, while an Australian Grenache — served slightly chilled — provides juicy red fruit that pairs beautifully with the tomato base.
 
Vigilante – A Century of Spanish Seafood Tradition
For over a hundred years, Vigilante has been preserving the rich seafood heritage of Spain, offering high-quality tinned fish with a focus on natural ingredients and sustainability. Based in Galicia—home to some of the world’s finest seafood—Vigilante uses time-honoured techniques to ensure their sardines and tuna are packed at peak freshness. Their commitment to organic olive oil enhances the pure flavours of their seafood, making each tin a celebration of tradition and taste.