Crispy Fried Maine Sardines

Servings: 24 Difficulty: Intermediate
Golden, crunchy sardines coated in a savory Parmesan breadcrumb crust
Crispy Fried Maine Sardines recipe image

Crispy Fried Maine Sardines

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 24 Calories: 832.0

Description

These Crispy Fried Maine Sardines are a nostalgic American classic that transforms simple canned fish into an elegant appetizer or party bite. The key is the triple-coat process: flour, a rich tomato-sardine sauce dip, and a crunchy mixture of dry breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. When fried to a golden brown, the exterior becomes shatteringly crisp while the inside remains tender and flavorful. They pair perfectly with a tangy cocktail sauce and a wedge of fresh lemon to cut through the richness. Ideal for seafood lovers, these bites are surprisingly easy to prepare and make a fantastic addition to any charcuterie board or holiday spread.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Drain the sardines thoroughly, reserving the sauce from the cans.
  2. Combine the reserved sardine sauce with 8 oz of tomato sauce in a shallow bowl.
  3. Mix 1 cup of dry bread crumbs with 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a separate shallow dish.
  4. Place 1/2 cup of flour in a third shallow dish.
  5. Dredge each sardine fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  6. Dip the floured sardines into the tomato sauce mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
  7. Roll the sauce-coated sardines in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture until evenly covered.
  8. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
  9. Carefully place the coated sardines in the fry basket and lower them into the hot oil.
  10. Fry for about 1 minute, or until golden brown and crispy.
  11. Remove from oil and drain on absorbent paper towels.
  12. Serve immediately with cocktail sauce and sliced lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24


Amount Per Serving
Calories 832.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 44.0g68%
Saturated Fat 10.0g50%
Cholesterol 568.0mg190%
Sodium 1536.0mg64%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 96.0g192%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: american, appetizer, breadcrumbs, crispy, deep fried, fried sardines, maine sardines, parmesan, seafood, sardines, snack, tomato sauce, party food, classic recipe, golden brown, fish bites, coating, umami, quick recipe, comfort food
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