Sardinha Assada
Portuguese cuisine is renowned around the world for its traditional and authentic flavors that have been passed down through generations. At the heart of it, lies a deep love for seafood, and one of the most popular fish dishes found along the coastline of Portugal is the Sardinha Assada, which directly translates to grilled sardines.
Sardines have been a staple part of the Portuguese diet for centuries, and the country has become known for its skilled fishing and preservation techniques to ensure that the fish remain fresh for longer periods of time. It’s no surprise that the Portuguese celebrate sardines every year during the famous annual Lisbon Sardine Festival, where they are grilled, marinated, and served in various traditional dishes.
Sardinha Assada is a straightforward dish that requires only a few ingredients to bring out the exceptional flavors of grilled sardines. Preparing this dish is generally reserved for the summers, where one would find humble street vendors serving freshly grilled sardines along the seaside promenades, giving off a bold and irresistible aroma.
The sardines are first cleaned and descaled before being marinated for a few hours in a simple mixture of garlic, salt, and olive oil. Once the marinade has settled, the sardines are ready to be cooked on a hot grill or barbecue for a few minutes until the skin is slightly charred and crispy.
Served alongside a side salad of sliced tomatoes and sweet caramelized onions fragranced with fresh lemon juice and parsley, Sardinha Assada can also be accompanied with a cold glass of Vinho Verde or another kind of light wine.
In Portugal, the grill is often set up outdoors as a family affair that brings together the whole neighborhood. The sardines are usually served freshly grilled and hot off the grill, and the gathering continues until the last fish has been devoured. Thus, the process of preparing and cooking sardines becomes a full-blown event that celebrates the bounty of the sea while forging bonds between friends, families, and strangers.
Sardinha Assada is not only a simple, enjoyable meal for a warm summer evening, but it’s also a celebration of the diverse Portuguese culture that holds tradition in high regard. The essences of the old fishing port towns are captured in the simplicity of the dish that has been passed down through generations. It’s not just an exquisite Portuguese grilled fish dish, but it’s also a representation of their way of life and philosophy.
In conclusion, Sardinha Assada is one of the many examples of why the Portuguese are known as seafood lovers; it’s a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of the country’s unique culture and heritage. So why not try this simple, delicious dish at home, and let the flavors of the sea take you on a journey to Portugal’s coastal towns?
Ingredients:
- 8-10 fresh sardines, scaled and gutted
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 425F.
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Rinse the sardines under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
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In a small bowl, mix the crushed garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
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Place the sardines on a baking dish, and season both sides of each fish with the prepared spice mix.
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Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the sardines and lay the sliced lemon over them.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked, and the skin is crispy.
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Remove from the oven, and let the sardines cool for a few minutes before serving with lemon wedges, chopped fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy your delicious Portuguese Sardinha Assada!