Balkan-style Grilled Sardine with Buckwheat Noodles

Ingredients

In this Balkan adaptation, we substitute the traditional soba noodles with buckwheat noodles, which are commonly used in Balkan cuisine. Additionally, we incorporate Balkan spices and grilling techniques to enhance the flavors of the sardines, giving them a distinct Balkan twist. We alse have the original recipe for Nishin soba, so you can check it out.

• 4 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted 4 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika (5g) 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (2.5g) 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (2.5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (2.5g) 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (2.5g)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 200g buckwheat noodles 200g buckwheat noodles
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
3. 3.
   Pat dry the sardines with a paper towel and brush them generously with the marinade.
4. 4.
   Place the sardines on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
5. 5.
   While the sardines are grilling, cook the buckwheat noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Serve the grilled sardines over a bed of buckwheat noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
7. 7.
   Enjoy this Balkan-style Grilled Sardine with Buckwheat Noodles while it's still warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Buckwheat noodles — Make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking the buckwheat noodles as they may require a specific cooking time. Overcooking can result in mushy noodles, so keep an eye on them while boiling.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have access to fresh sardines, you can use canned sardines in olive oil as a substitute. Simply drain the oil and use the sardines in the same way as fresh ones.
• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some lemon juice over the grilled sardines before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite Balkan spices or herbs.
• Serve this dish with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Sardine and Buckwheat Noodles hot, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the sardines. Accompany the dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled sardines on top of a bed of buckwheat noodles, garnished with fresh parsley. Place lemon wedges on the side of the plate for an attractive presentation. Serve on a rustic Balkan-style platter to enhance the cultural experience.