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Grilled Sardines with Chile Sauce: A Flavorful Seafood Delight

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Enjoy the vibrant flavors of grilled sardines, seasoned to perfection and paired with a zesty homemade chile sauce. This dish is ideal for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, showcasing fresh ingredients and bold tastes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh sardines, cleaned and scaled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 4 dried red chiles (such as guajillo or ancho)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

  1. Remove the stems and seeds from the dried red chiles.
  2. Toast the chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the toasted chiles to a bowl and cover with hot water. Soak for 15-20 minutes until softened.
  4. Drain the chiles and place them in a blender. Add minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add 1/4 cup of water and blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Set aside.
  6. Rinse the cleaned sardines under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  7. In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the sardines and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
  8. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  9. Place the sardines directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket.
  10. Grill for 3-4 minutes on one side until they release easily and have grill marks.
  11. Flip the sardines carefully and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through and skin is crispy.
  12. Remove from the grill and place on a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
  13. Drizzle the chile sauce over the grilled sardines or serve on the side for dipping.
  14. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use fresh sardines for the best flavor; they should be shiny and smell fresh.
  • Frozen sardines can be used; ensure they are fully thawed and dried before grilling.
  • Adjust the heat level of the chile sauce by using different chiles or adding more for spiciness.
  • Pair with a simple salad or crusty bread to complement the dish.

Find it online: https://softtasty.com/grilled-sardines-with-chile-sauce/