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Tuga Pops − Sunday, January 3, 2021, 6 Years ago in Seafood Recipes
4 out of 5 with 7 ratings

Crispy Griddle Grilled Sardines Recipe

Enjoy our Crispy Griddle Grilled Sardines, ready in 20 minutes with garlic, smoked paprika, and rosemary for a crunchy, flavorful seafood delight!
2 h 20 min 2 servings Easy Prep time 10 min Cooking Time 10 min

You will love this Crispy Griddle Grilled Sardines Recipe

Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these Crispy Griddle Grilled Sardines! Ready in just 20 minutes, they're perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. Marinated with garlic, smoked paprika, and a hint of chili, these sardines are grilled to perfection, yielding a delightfully charred exterior and succulent meat. Serve them drizzled with olive oil and fresh lemon for a truly irresistible dish!


Ingredients

2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra to serve3 cloves of garlic, sliced1 tablespoon of smoked sweet paprika, plus extra to serve1/2 lemon, zested and wedged to serve4 sprigs of rosemary, leaves stripped and bruised1 red chili pepper, deseeded and finely chopped8 sardines, gutted

Equipment:

Mixing bowlBaking dishBbq or griddle panServing plate

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Put all of the ingredients, except the sardines, into a bowl and mix it all together.
  2. Pour into a baking dish, add the sardines and toss really well.
  3. Cover and let it chill for a few hours.
  4. Heat a BBQ or a griddle pan until hot.
  5. Cook the sardines for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are really caramelised and charred.
  6. Put onto a serving plate, drizzle with oil and squeeze the lemon wedges over them.

Recipe Tips

For maximum crispiness, ensure the griddle is preheated to a high temperature before adding the sardines. A hot griddle helps to sear the skin quickly, creating a crunchy exterior.
When seasoning the sardines, apply the smoked sweet paprika evenly to both sides of the fish. This not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the crispy texture when cooking.
Avoid overcrowding the griddle with sardines. Cooking in batches allows for better heat distribution and prevents steaming, which can lead to soggy fish. Aim for enough space between each sardine for even cooking.
Adapted from a Recipe by: olivemagazine.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish instead of sardines?

Yes, you can substitute sardines with other small fish such as mackerel, herring, or anchovies. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the fish.

How should I store leftover cooked sardines?

Leftover cooked sardines can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan to maintain their texture before serving.

What can I use instead of smoked sweet paprika?

If you don’t have smoked sweet paprika, you can use regular paprika or a combination of paprika and a touch of cayenne pepper for added heat. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and refreshing wine complements the salty flavors of sardines while enhancing their natural sweetness.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - The citrus and herbal notes of Sauvignon Blanc beautifully match the garlic and rosemary in the dish, providing a crisp balance.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This pale lager offers a light body and crisp finish, making it a refreshing choice alongside the grilled sardines.

General: Pilsner - A classic Pilsner provides a clean, dry finish that pairs well with the smokiness of the paprika and the richness of the sardines.

Other Beverages

Lemonade: A zesty lemonade enhances the dish’s flavors and provides a refreshing contrast to the grilled sardines.

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Reviews (2) Add a review

Dave
Dave
Heard best cooked over pine wood, true ?
5 Years ago, Monday, August 23, 2021

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
That is actually not true, you shouldn't cook anything over pine wood, google it Dave.
5 Years ago, Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a
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