New Zealand sardines are a lot larger than the ones you’ll find in tins. They’re available from good fishmongers. You’ll need one sardine per person for a starter, or two for a meal. This recipe, which we cooked the day of my visit to Cazador in Auckland, complements a pilsner. The acidity of the salsa on the sardines is complemented by a beer with a decent hop flavour.
Sardines
4 | Sardines, fresh, gutted (Main) |
2 Tbsp | Olive oil |
Salsa
½ cup | Olives, green and black, sliced long ways and pips removed (Main) |
3 small | Tomatoes, chopped into small chunks |
1 bunch | Fresh oregano, finely chopped |
2 Tbsp | Fennel seeds, lightly toasted |
2 Tbsp | Olive oil, good quality |
Directions
- Oil and season the fish, rubbing in the salt and pepper.
- Heat a chargrilled barbecue or griddle pan to a high heat. Cook for about 1 and a half minutes each side (you may need to adjust depending on the size of your fish).
- Serve immediately with the salsa on top.
- To make the salsa place all ingredients in a small bowl and mix together gently. Season to taste, and serve on the sardines.