I
nspired by our last journey to Portugal's vibrant sardine culture, we recreated a comforting dish loved by locals: Arroz de Sardinha (Sardine Rice). This flavorful rice dish combines tender sardines with juicy tomatoes, savory onions, and a touch of sweetness from peppers, all nestled in a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 bay leaf
- Pinch of saffron (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can sardines in olive oil, drained (reserve oil)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Fun Fact: More than 60 percent of the national sardine catch is consumed fresh in Portugal.
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and peppers, and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, water (or broth), bay leaf, and saffron (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the rinsed rice and bring back to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is almost cooked through.
- Gently fold in the drained sardines, reserving some of the olive oil from the can. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the sardines are heated through.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional), and serve hot.
Tips and Variations
- For a richer flavor, use some of the reserved olive oil from the sardine can when adding the rice.
- Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Don’t have saffron? No worries! The dish will still be delicious.
- This recipe is easily adaptable. Like other vegetables? Try adding chopped green beans or peas.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
So, grab your favorite can of sardines, channel your inner Portuguese chef, and enjoy a taste of this delightful Arroz de Sardinha!
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