Grilled Sardines with Shanghai Twist

Ingredients

In this Shanghai-inspired adaptation, the traditional Portuguese grilled sardines are infused with Shanghai flavors by marinating them in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder. The dish is also served with stir-fried vegetables and steamed rice, which are common accompaniments in Shanghai cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Sardinhas assadas, so you can check it out.

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (45ml) 3 tablespoons soy sauce (45ml)
• 2 tablespoons ginger, grated (30g) 2 tablespoons ginger, grated (30g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Stir-fried vegetables, for serving Stir-fried vegetables, for serving
• Steamed rice, for serving Steamed rice, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. 3.
   Place the cleaned sardines in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the sardines are well coated. Let them marinate for 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the sardines from the marinade and place them on the preheated grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
5. 5.
   Serve the grilled sardines with stir-fried vegetables and steamed rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sardines — Ensure that the sardines are fresh and properly cleaned before marinating and grilling them. Fresh sardines have a firm texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• Soy sauce — Opt for a high-quality soy sauce to enhance the overall taste of the dish. Light soy sauce works best in this recipe.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to preheat the grill properly to ensure even cooking and a nice char on the sardines.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• Serve the grilled sardines with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of acidity.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the sardines in a grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
• Experiment with different vegetables for the stir-fry, such as bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Sardines with Shanghai Twist hot, alongside a generous portion of stir-fried vegetables and steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled sardines on a platter, placing them neatly with their charred side facing up. Surround them with vibrant stir-fried vegetables and a mound of steamed rice. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for an appealing presentation.