Name: Vietnamese-Inspired Caramelized Sardines
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons neutral oil; 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 1 1/2 tablespoon fish sauce; 1/4 cup Coconut water; 2 4-ounce cans sardine fillets; 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons green onions, plus more for garnish if desired; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups hot cooked rice; sliced cucumbers, chopped cilantro and lime wedges forserving

Vietnamese-Inspired Caramelized Sardines

These Vietnamese-inspired caramelized sardines transform canned sardines into a rich, savory-sweet meal with caramelized sugar, fish sauce, garlic, and coconut water. Served over hot rice with cucumbers, fresh cilantro, and lime, it's a quick lunch or dinner that's ready in 20 minutes.

20 min total 5 min prep 15 min cook 4 218 cal

Instructions

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1 Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sugar and cook until it begins to brown, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes.
2 Add garlic and onion and cook until fragrant, stirring constantly, about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3 Stir in red pepper, fish sauce, and coconut water and cook for 1 minute. Add sardines and break them up slightly into large pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4 Season with soy sauce, green onions, and pepper and remove from heat.
5 Divide rice among serving bowls and top evenly with sardine mixture and sauce. Serve topped with cucumbers, cilantro, lime wedges, and more green onions if desired.