Grilled Sardines with Djiboutian Flavors

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have infused the original Croatian dish, Srdele na gradele, with the vibrant flavors of Djiboutian cuisine. The original dish typically features sardines marinated in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, and then grilled. In our Djiboutian version, we have replaced the marinade with a blend of Djiboutian spices, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika, to create a unique flavor profile that reflects the culinary traditions of Djibouti. We alse have the original recipe for Srdele na gradele, so you can check it out.

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 1g, 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
3. 3.
   Pat the sardines dry with a paper towel and place them in a shallow dish.
4. 4.
   Pour the marinade over the sardines, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes.
5. 5.
   Place the marinated sardines on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
6. 6.
   Remove the sardines from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve the grilled sardines with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sardines — Ensure that the sardines are fresh and properly cleaned before marinating and grilling. Fresh sardines have a firm texture and a mild, sweet flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the sardines in a grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
• Serve the grilled sardines with a side of Djiboutian spiced rice or couscous for a complete meal.
• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled sardines before serving.
• Experiment with different spice blends to customize the flavor of the marinade according to your preference.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of spices used in the marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Sardines with Djiboutian Flavors as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the sardines.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled sardines on a platter, garnish with sprigs of fresh cilantro, and place lemon wedges on the side. The vibrant colors of the sardines and the fresh herbs will make for an appetizing presentation.