Sardinhas De Escabeche

Servings: 4 servings Difficulty: Advanced
Crispy fried sardines marinated in a tangy, spicy tomato and onion escabeche sauce.
Sardinhas De Escabeche (Emeril Lagasse recipe image

Sardinhas De Escabeche

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4 servings Calories: 235.7
Dietary:

Description

This classic Portuguese-inspired dish features small sardines that are first fried until crisp, then submerged in a vibrant marinade of sautéed onions, garlic, tomatoes, white wine, and vinegar. The acidic escabeche broth tenderizes the fish while infusing it with bold, aromatic flavors. It is a perfect example of Mediterranean comfort food, balancing rich textures with bright acidity. Ideal for sharing at a family dinner or as part of a festive seafood spread, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a sophisticated meal. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious when prepared a day or two in advance.

Directions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
  2. When the oil is hot, add the julienned onions and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Sauté the onions for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the garlic, tomatoes, parsley, and bay leaves to the skillet.
  5. Continue to sauté the mixture for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the white wine, vinegar, and paprika.
  7. Season the sauce with salt and crushed red pepper to taste.
  8. Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.
  10. Season the cleaned sardines with salt and pepper on both sides.
  11. Heat oil for frying in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
  12. Fry the sardines in batches for about 1 1/2 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp.
  13. Remove the fried sardines from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  14. Place the drained sardines in a shallow dish or bowl.
  15. Pour the warm onion and tomato escabeche mixture over the sardines, ensuring they are well coated.
  16. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
  17. Refrigerate for at least 2 days to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
  18. Remove from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
  19. Arrange the sardines on a platter and spoon the remaining marinade and vegetables over the top.
  20. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4 servings


Amount Per Serving
Calories 235.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 19.0g30%
Saturated Fat 2.6g13%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 9.1mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 16.0g6%
Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
Sugars 6.7g
Protein 2.3g5%

* 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: sardines, escabeche, portuguese, mediterranean, seafood, fried fish, marinated, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, white wine, vinegar, bay leaf, paprika, crispy, appetizer, dinner, summer
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