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Crispy Fried Sardines Recipe

4.8 from 130 reviews

A simple and crispy fried sardines recipe featuring fresh sardines coated in seasoned cornmeal and fried until golden brown. Perfectly paired with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and a refreshing Turkish lettuce salad for a delightful seafood meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram fresh sardines (cleaned and gutted)
  • 200 grams cornmeal
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 150 ml oil (light olive oil or sunflower oil)

To Serve

  • Lemon wedges
  • Sliced onions
  • Mevsim Salatası (Turkish Lettuce Salad)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Drain Sardines: Rinse the sardines thoroughly under running water, then place them in a colander to drain out excess water to ensure they are dry before coating.
  2. Prepare Cornmeal Mixture: In a large, shallow plate, combine the cornmeal and salt evenly to create the coating mixture for the sardines.
  3. Coat the Sardines: Dip each sardine into the cornmeal mixture, making sure they are fully coated on all sides, then lay them aside on the plate ready for frying.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour the oil into a wide skillet and heat over medium heat. Test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a pinch of cornmeal in; it should sizzle immediately.
  5. Fry the Sardines: Fry the sardines in batches, cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  6. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fried sardines to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil, keeping them crisp and less greasy.
  7. Serve: Serve the crispy fried sardines immediately alongside lemon wedges, sliced onions, and Mevsim Salatası (Turkish Lettuce Salad) for a refreshing accompaniment.

Notes

  • Make sure sardines are well drained to ensure a crispy coating.
  • Use fresh sardines for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust frying oil quantity as needed to maintain consistent heat.
  • Serve immediately for optimum crispiness.
  • This recipe pairs well with light, fresh salads and citrus flavors.

Keywords: fried sardines, cornmeal fried fish, Turkish seafood recipe, crispy sardines, easy seafood dish