Mordovian-style Marinated Sardines with Oregano and Bread

Ingredients

In this Mordovian adaptation, the Italian dish of Sarde con origano e pane is transformed by incorporating Mordovian flavors and ingredients. The original recipe is enhanced with the addition of oregano, a herb commonly used in Mordovian cuisine. The cooking technique is also modified, with the sardines being pan-fried instead of grilled or baked, as is typical in Italian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Sarde con origano e pane, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted 500g (1.1 lb) fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 4 tablespoons white vinegar 4 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices crusty bread 4 slices crusty bread

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the white vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the cleaned sardines to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
4. 4.
   Remove the sardines from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and place them in the hot pan.
5. 5.
   Cook the sardines for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. 6.
   While the sardines are cooking, toast the slices of crusty bread until they are crispy and golden.
7. 7.
   Serve the pan-fried sardines alongside the toasted bread, garnished with additional oregano leaves if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sardines — Ensure that the sardines are fresh and properly cleaned before marinating. If fresh sardines are not available, you can use canned sardines packed in oil as a substitute.
• Oregano — Use fresh oregano leaves for the best flavor. If fresh oregano is not available, you can substitute it with dried oregano, but reduce the quantity by half.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some lemon juice over the cooked sardines before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Serve the sardines with a side of fresh salad or pickled vegetables to complement the flavors.
• If you don't have access to fresh sardines, you can use other small, oily fish such as mackerel or anchovies as a substitute.
• To make the dish more substantial, you can serve it with a side of boiled potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Serving advice

Serve the Mordovian-style marinated sardines with oregano and bread as a main course or as part of a seafood platter. Accompany it with a fresh salad or pickled vegetables to balance the flavors. Garnish with additional oregano leaves for an appealing presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pan-fried sardines on a platter, placing the slices of toasted bread alongside them. Sprinkle some fresh oregano leaves over the sardines for a pop of color. Serve with a side of salad or pickled vegetables to create an enticing and visually appealing presentation.