Lent, a season of reflection and restraint, often brings forth a desire for simple, yet satisfying meals. This year, ditch the bland and embrace the vibrant flavors of Lenten Sardine Stew, a surprisingly delicious and budget-friendly dish perfect for a Friday night supper or a light, comforting lunch. Rich in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, sardines offer a nutritional powerhouse, while the stew's blend of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices create a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget expensive seafood; this recipe proves that delicious and healthy meals don't have to break the bank.
This hearty stew is remarkably easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Forget complicated cooking techniques; this recipe is straightforward and accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Ready to dive into this flavorful and fulfilling dish? Let's embark on the step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable Lenten Sardine Stew.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Sardines in tomato sauce: 425g can
- Onion: 1/2
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Tomatoes: 2
- Serrano pepper: 1
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Bay leaf: 1
- Oregano: a little
- Cabbage: 1/2 small
- Jalapeño peppers: null
- Carrots: null
- Mexican oregano: 2 cloves
- Salt: null
- Pineapple or apple cider vinegar: a little
- Water: a little
- Lemon juice: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes
- Finely chop the onion, garlic, tomatoes, and serrano pepper. Slice the jalapeño peppers and carrots thinly. Prepare the cabbage as described below (step 10).
- In a frying pan with hot oil, fry the onion for 5 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the garlic, bay leaf, and oregano. Cook for about a minute to release their flavor.
- Add the tomatoes and chili. Season with salt and stir. Let the tomatoes cook for 5 minutes.
Step 2. Simmer Sardines and Season
- Add the sardines with their tomato sauce. Add lemon juice (or vinegar from pickled chilies) to reduce the sardine smell.
- Mix well. You can leave the sardines whole or cut them into smaller pieces. Let the stew simmer to develop flavor.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- After 5 minutes, turn off the heat and add the cilantro.
- Serve the sardine stew on toast.
- Serve the stew with the prepared cabbage.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- Prepare the cabbage in advance for better flavor and softness. Finely cut half a small cabbage, wash it, and slice diagonally. Add jalapeño peppers, carrots (peeled and thinly sliced), half an onion, two cloves of garlic, Mexican oregano, salt, a little pineapple or apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well and let it integrate for at least a couple of hours.
- Adding an acid like lemon juice or vinegar neutralizes the strong smell of sardines.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the sardines?
Yes! Anchovies or other oily fish like mackerel would work well, though the flavor will be slightly different. You could even use canned tuna if you prefer.
2. What can I do if I don't have all the vegetables listed?
Feel free to improvise! Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Carrots, potatoes, and celery are great additions, but the core flavor comes from the tomatoes and onions.
This Lenten Sardine Stew is a testament to how delicious and affordable healthy eating can be. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a special Lenten occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and savor the delicious results!