Homemade Sardine Recipe
Discover the delightful flavors of homemade sardines with this simple yet satisfying recipe that features tender fish infused with zesty notes and a rich, savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal or a special gathering. Enjoy the blend of fresh ingredients that create a delightful balance between tangy and savory.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fish (Salem/Tongkol or your choice) | 500 grams, cleaned and cut into pieces |
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Bottled tomato sauce | 5 tablespoons |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 3 cloves |
| Margarine | 2 tablespoons (1 tablespoon recommended) |
| Water | As needed |
| For the Sauce: | |
| Large tomatoes, roughly chopped | 3 |
| Large red chilies, seeds removed (or curly chilies) | 3 |
| Salt (to taste) | 2 teaspoons |
| Sugar (to taste) | 2 teaspoons |
| Boiled water | 150 ml |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fish: Begin by marinating the fish pieces with lime juice and salt. Allow it to rest for 15 minutes before rinsing it clean. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps in tenderizing the fish.
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Fry the Fish: In a pan, heat a little oil and fry the fish until it is half-cooked. Be cautious not to overcook it at this stage, as it will continue cooking later in the sauce. Once done, set it aside.
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Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the chopped tomatoes, red chilies, salt, sugar, and boiled water. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan used for frying the fish, add margarine and sauté the finely chopped garlic until it becomes fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the blended sauce and the bottled tomato sauce into the pan. Gently add the half-cooked fish, ensuring that the pieces are well-coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
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Cook to Perfection: Let the dish simmer until the sauce thickens and reduces, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom. Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, add the margarine. Stir until it melts and is well combined into the sauce.
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Serve: Your delicious homemade sardines are now ready to be served. Enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice or bread, and savor the rich, tangy flavors!
Notes
- Fish Size: When cutting the fish, ensure the pieces are not too small to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- Stirring: Remember to stir the sauce occasionally to avoid any ingredients from burning at the bottom of the pan.
- Margarine Usage: Start with 1 tablespoon of margarine, as it provides a rich flavor; if you desire a stronger taste, feel free to add more.
- Fish Alternatives: You can use either Pindang Tongkol or Cuwe for this recipe, allowing you to tailor it to your preference.
This homemade sardine recipe brings together the simplicity of cooking with fresh ingredients, allowing you to create a delightful dish that captures the essence of home-cooked meals. Enjoy making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones!
