Spicy sardine paste

Spicy sardine paste recipe – a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer

Spicy sardine paste is an appetizer that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of originality to your table. With a perfect mix of the intense flavor of sardines, the delicacy of tuna, and the creamy texture of butter, this recipe is ideal for a gathering with friends or a relaxing dinner at home.

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

The history of fish pastes is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Traditionally, these dishes are consumed as appetizers, often accompanied by a glass of wine, and represent an excellent way to use fish in diverse and creative ways.

Ingredients:
- 1 can of spicy sardines in oil
- 1 can of tuna in water
- 100 g of butter (ideally at room temperature)
- 10-15 green or black olives, pitted
- 1-2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- A little lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by draining the sardines from the oil they are canned in. This will not only reduce the fat but also allow the flavors to concentrate. Also, drain the tuna from the water, ensuring no liquid remains. If you don't have tuna in water, you can use tuna in oil, but you will need to adjust the amount of butter.

Step 2: Making the paste
In a food processor, add the drained sardines, tuna, softened butter, olives, lemon juice, and mayonnaise. Blend everything at medium speed until you achieve a smooth paste. This step is essential for obtaining a creamy and fine texture. If you prefer a paste with larger pieces, you can stop the processor earlier.

Step 3: Tasting
After the paste has been blended, add salt and pepper to taste. It's important to ensure that the flavors are balanced, especially since the sardines are already salty. Then add the diced onion and mix well, using a spatula or a wooden spoon. The onion adds a crunchy note and a pleasant contrast to the creamy texture of the paste.

Step 4: Serving
The spicy sardine paste can be served immediately, but for an even more intense flavor, I recommend letting it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. It can be served on slices of fresh baguette, salty crackers, or even on slices of vegetables like cucumbers or carrots. A wonderful idea is to present it in a small bowl, decorated with olives and a few lemon slices for an attractive look.

Practical tips and variations
- If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can replace the lemon juice with lime juice or add some chopped parsley leaves.
- You can experiment with different types of olives to adjust the flavor of the paste. Kalamata olives, for example, will provide a more intense taste.
- A spicy version of this recipe may include adding chopped chili pepper or a few drops of Tabasco sauce if you desire a hotter note.

Nutritional information and calories
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Additionally, tuna is an excellent source of protein, and olives and butter add healthy fats. A serving of spicy sardine paste has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sardines in water instead of oil?
Yes, but the dish will have a less creamy texture. You can adjust the amount of butter or mayonnaise to compensate.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Unfortunately, this recipe contains fish and butter, but you can try a vegan version using tofu and spices to mimic the taste of fish.

- How can I store the sardine paste?
The paste can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It may thicken after a few days. You can add a bit of mayonnaise or olive oil to regain its consistency.

This spicy sardine paste is more than just a simple recipe – it is a culinary experience that brings together diverse flavors and textures, easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Dare to try it and enjoy every bite!