Savory Homemade Sardines with Aromatic Spice Sauce

Homemade Sardine Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 kg mackerel (alternatively, you can use tuna or sardines)
• Mushroom seasoning powder, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• White sugar, to taste
• 500 ml water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass
• 2 cm ginger
• For the spice paste:
  • 4 boiled tomatoes
  • 10 shallots
  • 7 garlic cloves

Instructions:

1. Fry the Sardines:
   Heat oil in a pan and fry the mackerel until golden brown. Once done, remove from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   In a blender or food processor, blend the boiled tomatoes, shallots, and garlic cloves into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:
   In a large pan or wok, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant.

4. Add Aromatics:
   Slice the lemongrass and ginger into thin pieces and add them to the pan along with the bay leaves. Continue to sauté for another minute.

5. Make the Sauce:
   Pour in 500 ml of water, then season with salt, sugar, and mushroom seasoning powder to taste. Stir and let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

6. Combine and Simmer:
   Add the fried mackerel to the pan with the simmering sauce. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the fish absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

7. Serve:
   Once the mackerel is well-coated with the sauce and flavors have melded, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade sardines with a delightful blend of flavors and a comforting, hearty meal!