Savory Sardines in Spicy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 small can of sardines
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, roughly chopped
• 2 red chilies, sliced on the diagonal
• 2 green chilies, sliced on the diagonal
• 1 stalk of green onion, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 ripe tomato, chopped
• Tomato ketchup
• Sweet soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Seasoning (optional)
• Oil for sautéing
• 1/2 cup of water

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:

   • Slice the shallots and garlic thinly. Roughly chop the large onion.
   • Slice the red and green chilies on the diagonal. Chop the green onion and the ripe tomato.
   • Set all prepared ingredients aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add the shallots, garlic, and bay leaf to the pan. Sauté until fragrant.

3. Add Onions and Chilies:

   • Incorporate the chopped onions and sliced red and green chilies into the pan.
   • Stir and cook until the onions become translucent.

4. Combine Sardines:

   • Gently add the sardines from the can into the pan.
   • Pour in 1/2 cup of water and stir well.

5. Flavor the Sauce:

   • Add tomato ketchup, sweet soy sauce, and oyster sauce to the pan.
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and optional seasoning to taste. Stir thoroughly to combine.

6. Add Tomato and Green Onions:

   • Mix in the chopped tomato and green onion.
   • Continue stirring to ensure everything is well combined.

7. Simmer:

   • Cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together, stirring occasionally.

8. Final Touches:

   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   • Once the sauce has thickened to your preference, remove from heat.

9. Serve:

   • Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy your Sardines in Tomato Sauce!

This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or crusty bread. Enjoy your meal!