Sweet and Sour Sardines

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sarden Asam Manis, a vibrant dish that combines the richness of canned mackerel sardines with fresh vegetables, creating a quick yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish brings together the tanginess of fresh ingredients with the savory depth of sardines, making it a staple in many households.

Ingredients

• 1 can mackerel sardines
• 1 bunch mustard greens (caisim)
• 1/4 head cabbage
• 1 carrot
• 1 ripe red tomato
• 1 stalk green onion and celery
• 1 small onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 7 whole bird’s eye chilies
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• Sugar and salt, to taste
• Oil for sautéing

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables except for the whole bird’s eye chilies. Make sure everything is ready for a seamless cooking experience.

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2. Sauté Aromatics: In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring until they become fragrant and translucent.

3. Add the Tomato and Chilies: Incorporate the diced tomato and whole bird’s eye chilies into the pan. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

4. Incorporate the Carrot: Add the sliced carrot to the mixture, stirring briefly before adding the sardines. Gently toss the sardines in the pan, then add a splash of water and let it simmer until it bubbles.

5. Mix in the Vegetables: Once the sardines are heated through, add the chopped greens and cabbage. Stir well, then pour in the oyster sauce. Season with sugar and salt to taste, adjusting the flavor as necessary.

6. Final Touches: Cook until the vegetables are tender yet crisp, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Once everything is well-cooked and seasoned to your liking, turn off the heat.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Your Sweet and Sour Sardines are now ready to be served! Enjoy this dish warm, accompanied by steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand; bell peppers or snap peas can make delightful additions.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can slice the bird’s eye chilies and add them during the sautéing step for more heat.

Conclusion

This Sarden Asam Manis recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s also a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it highlights the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. Happy cooking!