Appetizer · Mediterranean · Dinner ·

Portuguese Sardine and Tomato Escabeche with Crusty Bread

This vibrant escabeche features fried sardines paired with a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for soaking up with crusty bread.

4.9(862 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Portuguese Sardine and Tomato Escabeche with Crusty Bread — Appetizer served and photographed from above
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Marinating the Sardines

  1. 1

    Season sardines

    Season the cleaned sardines with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Dust with flour

    Lightly dust each sardine with flour, shaking off the excess.

Preparing the Tomato Escabeche

  1. 1

    Sauté onion

    In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.

  2. 2

    Add garlic and pepper

    Add garlic and red bell pepper, cook until softened.

  3. 3

    Simmer sauce

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine vinegar, sugar, and bay leaf. Simmer for 15 minutes.

  4. 4

    Season sauce

    Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Make Portuguese Sardine and Tomato Escabeche with Crusty Bread

Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Fry the sardines

    Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.

  2. 2

    Simmer the sauce

    Let the tomato sauce simmer on low heat to meld flavors, about 15-20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Toast the bread

    Lightly drizzle slices of baguette with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then toast until golden.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

    Can I substitute fresh sardines with canned ones?

    Fresh sardines are recommended for the best texture, but canned can be used in a pinch.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, the escabeche flavors deepen when made a day in advance.

    What can be used instead of red wine vinegar?

    White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes.

    Can this dish be frozen?

    It's not recommended to freeze, as sardines may become mushy.

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