Homemade Sardines: A Simple Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 medium-sized sardine fish
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 4 shallots
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon chili or tomato sauce
- 1 lime
- Salt and sugar, to taste
- Seasoning, to taste
- Optional: Chili peppers for extra heat
Instructions
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Prepare the Sardines: Start by thoroughly cleaning the sardine fish, removing the heads, and rinsing them under cold water. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the fish to eliminate any fishy odor and let them sit for a while.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Slice the shallots and garlic thinly. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the shallots and garlic until fragrant and slightly golden.
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Add the Tomatoes: Chop the tomatoes into small pieces and add them to the pan once the shallots have softened. Cook until the tomatoes are tender and have released their juices.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in a little water along with the chili or tomato sauce, salt, sugar, and seasoning. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
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Cook the Sardines: Carefully place the sardines into the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Avoid stirring too much to prevent the fish from breaking apart. If necessary, gently flip the sardines to ensure even cooking.
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Simmer to Perfection: Allow the dish to simmer until the sauce has thickened and the sardines are fully cooked. Make sure the sauce does not become too watery; a thicker consistency is preferred.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the sardines are cooked to your liking and the sauce has reduced, remove the pan from heat. Serve warm, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired.
Notes
This simple homemade sardine dish is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can adjust the spiciness by adding chili peppers to suit your taste, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy with steamed rice or fresh bread for a satisfying experience!
