Stir-Fried Sardines

Stir-Fried Sardines with Malabar Spinach is a quick, flavorful dish combining the rich, savory taste of canned sardines with the fresh, slightly earthy flavor of alugbati (Malabar spinach). Perfect as a budget-friendly and nutritious meal served with steamed rice.

Recipe:

* Canned sardines in tomato sauce (155g)

* Alugbati leaves (Malabar spinach), washed and drained

* Onion, sliced

* Garlic, minced

* Tomato, diced

* Cooking oil

* Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

* Chili (siling labuyo) for spice

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Sardines: Open the can of sardines, separate the fish from the sauce, and set both aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and tomato until fragrant and softened.

Step3: Cook Sardines: Add the sardines (whole or mashed) and gently stir to combine with the aromatics.

Step 4: Add Sauce: Pour in the reserved tomato sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add Alugbati: Stir in the alugbati leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted but still vibrant.

Step 6: Serve: Transfer to a plate and serve hot with steamed rice.