How to Enjoy Sea Sisters: A Guide to British Craft Conservas

Sea Sisters' British conservas turn simple moments into something special. These handcrafted tinned seafood from Dorset are made for what founders Charlotte and Angus call the "Golden Hour" - those moments of unwinding with good food and drink.

The story behind Sea Sisters

Sea Sisters is the brainchild of Charlotte Dawe and chef Angus Cowan, who launched the venture from their kitchen table in Bridport, West Dorset, during the 2020 lockdown. Navigating early parenthood and pandemic restrictions, the pair noticed a gap in the market: there were no tinned fish products using British seafood in the European conservas style. Combining Angus's culinary experience from renowned London restaurants like Trullo and Rochelle Canteen with Charlotte's vision, they set out to create high-quality, handmade conservas that celebrate British fish and seafood - and Sea Sisters has since grown into the UK's first craft cannery dedicated to preserving British fish in season.

Sustainability runs through everything they do. Sea Sisters works with small fisheries that employ low-impact fishing methods and harvest mature fish from abundant stocks, proudly supporting women fishermen and UK aquaculture. Each conserva is handmade in small batches at their Dorset cannery, and their work has been recognised in The Guardian's roundup of top indie food producers.

The conservas

Cornish Hake with Rosemary & Capers features tender hake in herb-infused olive oil with rosemary, garlic, and capers. Simply serve on warm crusty bread with the oil, or toss with pasta and rocket for a quick supper. It pairs well with Pattingham Vineyard Sparkling White - the wine's acidity cuts through the oil whilst the bubbles lift the herbs.

Rainbow Trout Smoked Over Oak has a gentle smoky flavour that's not overpowering. Add to scrambled eggs with chives for breakfast, or serve on biscuits with cream cheese as canapés.

Norfolk Whelks with Chilli & Garlic offer a mild seafood flavour with a gentle heat from the chilli. Serve on crusty bread with a squeeze of lemon for a seaside snack, or toss with pasta and fresh herbs for a quick supper.

Present the conservas properly to make the most of them. Use decent plates and small spoons for the oils - they're part of the experience. Open tins carefully and provide good bread or quality biscuits.

A great gift

Sea Sisters conservas make a thoughtful gift for any food lover - they're gourmet food that's ready in minutes, with real British heritage that supports local producers and sustainable fishing. Put together a hamper with Sea Sisters conservas, Pattingham Vineyard Sparkling White or some of our speciality roasted coffee beans, and add a note about taking time for a "Golden Hour" moment. It's not just food - it's an invitation to slow down and enjoy quality.

Wine pairing

Pattingham Vineyard Sparkling White works well with Sea Sisters conservas. The English sparkling wine's acidity and bubbles complement both the herb oils and smoky flavours, showcasing British craftsmanship.

Other ways to use them

Add conservas to pasta dishes, salads, or cheese boards. They work in sandwiches or as part of entertaining spreads. Treat them as quality ingredients that deserve proper handling.

Sea Sisters conservas show that good experiences don't need complicated preparation. Sometimes the best moments come from simple things: quality food, good drink, and time to appreciate them. Shop the full Sea Sisters range here.

FAQ

What is a conserva?

A conserva is a style of preserved tinned fish, traditionally from Spain and Portugal, where the fish is cooked and preserved in olive oil along with herbs, spices or aromatics. Sea Sisters brings this European tradition to British-caught fish.

Where is Sea Sisters based?

Sea Sisters is a craft cannery based in Bridport, West Dorset, founded by Charlotte Dawe and chef Angus Cowan in 2020.

How should I serve Sea Sisters conservas?

Simply, on good bread or crackers, with the flavoured oil spooned over. They also work well tossed through pasta, added to salads, or as part of a cheese and charcuterie board.