Fried sardines with garlic, chilli and fresh herbs

 

Where did summer go? We are already half way through September and I definitely can feel chills in the early mornings. Although I enjoyed our summer a lot, I am happy to welcome the autumn.  

Past summer has been exceptionally warm this year what is very unusual to Irish weather and I bet nobody have expected that. Temperatures were reaching as high as 27C, and I have to tell you it was very pleasant change from what we would typically have. 

With all the sudden hot weather I really baked or cooked anything too complicated. Instead we spent majority of our time outside soaking up the sun and satisfying our hunger with light meals, fruits. And of course lots of popsicles and ice-creams kept us cool.

  

One of my preferred ways to spend hot summer days is near seaside. Not necessary swimming or sunbathing, but just to be near water and feel cool breeze coming from the sea.  

There are couple of nice beaches around Dublin but I have to say that one of my most favourite is definitely Howth. Located at north side of the Dublin, it is easy to access whether you drive or take a public transport.  There are always plenty things to do or see, such as Howth Castle or Martello Towers. Or if you would like to see some breathtaking views, I suggest having a walk over cliff tops as you circle Howth head. 

 

And not to forget that you can take a short boat trip to the Ireland’s Eye. It’s a small unpopulated island, just off the coast of the Howth. It takes only about 20 minutes to get there and boats to and from the island departs every 30 minutes, so you can stay there as long or as little you want.  I would suggest you take a picnic with you and spend some time there just relaxing and enjoying wonderful sights. 
 

 

 In our house we all love fish. Whether it’s fried, baked or grilled, we could eat it every day. And sardines are not exception.  They are delicious and do not require long cooking, just season and  fry them and your lunch is served. Easy!

Serves 4   

Ingredients:

 8-10 sardines, gutted and cleaned (you may need more sardines, depends on the size of yours sardines)

1 tsp chilli powder

Salt and pepper to taste

5-6 tbs all-purpose flour

 2 garlic cloves, sliced

Oil for frying

Chopped herbs to garnish

Lemon wedges

Method:

Put frying pan on a medium heat; add oil.

 Season sardines with salt, pepper and chilli powder then dredge the sardines in the flour, shaking off the excess flour.

To the frying pan add sliced garlic, gently fry it for about minute then add sardines and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.