Tuga Pops − Tuesday, February 16, 2016, 11 Years ago in Seafood Recipes

5 out of 5 with 4 ratings

Authentic Smoky Grilled Sardines Recipe

Name: Authentic Smoky Grilled Sardines Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 2 large potatoes, peeled, cut into 2cm pieces; 1 tablespoon hot smoked paprika; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped; 1 red onion, halved, thinly sliced; Handful of coriander sprigs; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 8-12 fresh sardines; 1 lemon, quartered

Enjoy this authentic smoky grilled sardines (sardinhas grelhadas), perfectly seasoned and char-grilled for a smoky, flavorful seafood experience.

55 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 20 min Cooking Time 35 min

Seafood Recipes

2 reviews

21.9k views

Ingredients

2 large potatoes, peeled, cut into 2cm pieces1 tablespoon hot smoked paprika1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil2 tomatoes, roughly chopped1 red onion, halved, thinly slicedHandful of coriander sprigs1 teaspoon lemon juice8-12 fresh sardines1 lemon, quartered

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cook the potatoes in a pan of simmering salted water for 8-10 minutes until almost tender, then drain well.
Toss potatoes with paprika and 1 tablespoon oil. Season and spread on a large lined baking tray, then roast for 20 minutes or until golden.
When the potatoes are done, toss in the tomatoes, onion, coriander, lemon juice and olives oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Increase the chargrill pan or barbecue heat to high. Brush the sardines and the grill with a little olive oil to help prevent sticking. Sprinkle the sardines with 1 teaspoon sea salt – the soft-flaked variety is best – then cook the sardines for 2-3 minutes each side until the skin is scorched and bubbling.
Divide the sardines among plates, then top with the salad and serve with lemon.

Recipe Tips

•

To achieve perfectly crispy potatoes, parboil them in salted water for about 5-7 minutes before grilling. This helps to soften them while ensuring a crispy exterior once grilled.

•

When preparing the sardines, ensure they are properly cleaned and scaled. A common mistake is to skip gutting them, which can lead to a bitter taste. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry before seasoning.

•

For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the sardines in a mixture of olive oil, hot smoked paprika, and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances the smoky flavor and prevents them from drying out on the grill.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Jill Dupleix, food writer

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use as a substitute for fresh sardines in this recipe?

You can substitute fresh sardines with other small oily fish like mackerel or anchovies. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, grilled eggplant or zucchini can provide a smoky flavor as a substitute.

How should I store leftover grilled sardines and vegetables?

Leftover grilled sardines and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to maintain texture.

My potatoes didn't get crispy in the oven; what went wrong?

If your potatoes didn't get crispy, they may have been overcrowded on the baking tray or not cooked long enough. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer and check for doneness at the end of the roasting time. You can also increase the oven temperature slightly for extra crispiness.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and slightly effervescent wine complements the smoky flavor of the sardines and enhances the freshness of the lemon and coriander.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - Its crisp acidity and citrus notes pair beautifully with the grilled sardines and the smoky paprika, balancing the dish's richness.

Beer

Portuguese: Sagres Beer - This pale lager offers a refreshing crispness that pairs well with the smoky and savory flavors of the sardines.

General: Lager - A classic lager provides a clean and refreshing backdrop, enhancing the flavors of the grilled fish without overpowering them.

Other Beverages

Fresh Lemonade: The bright acidity and sweetness of fresh lemonade complement the smoky flavors and cut through the richness of the sardines.

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Reviews (2) Add a review

Clare Doty

How do you get rid of the fishy smell in Sardines?

5 Years ago, Saturday, July 31, 2021

Tuga Pops

If you cook the sardines indoors, heat a small pot over medium heat with water, a teaspoon of cinnamon and the peel from one orange, once it comes to a boil, turn the heat down and just let it simmer, that should help.