Many of you know I am an unofficial spokesperson for sardines : ) This post will tell you all about sardines, including what nutrients they contain, sardine brands I like, and how to prepare these fish in a tin!
Fish In A Tin
Canned fish is a convenient and long-lasting source of protein that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, pasta, and more. It’s a popular choice for people who want a quick and easy way to incorporate fish into their meals, and it has a relatively long shelf life, making it a practical option for stocking your pantry. Canned fish is an ingredient with culinary versatility that can help you create quick meals.
Some common types of fish that you can find in tins or cans include:
- Tuna: Canned tuna is widely available and can be used in sandwiches, salads, casseroles, and sushi.
- Sardines: Canned sardines are often packed in oil or tomato sauce and can be served on crackers, in pasta dishes, or as a topping for salads.
- Salmon: Canned salmon is used in various recipes, including salmon patties, salads, and spreads.
- Anchovies: Canned anchovies are known for their strong, savory flavor and are often used as a pizza topping or in pasta sauces.
- Mackerel: Canned mackerel is another option for those looking to add variety to their canned fish choices.
I love canned tuna and smoked salmon, but my favorite fish in a tin is sardines, so I’m going to focus on sardines in this post.
Are sardines so good for you?
I truly believe sardines are one of the world’s healthiest foods because they contain three of the essential nutrients Americans are often deficient in: omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D.
Here are some of the benefits of sardines:
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Sardines are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are known for their cardiovascular benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and lowering the risk of heart disease.
- High in Protein: Sardines are a good source of high-quality protein, and when you are consuming sardines in a can, you don’t even need to do any cooking!
- Loaded with Nutrients: Sardines are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve function and the production of red blood cells, while vitamin D helps with bone health and immune function. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
- Bone Health: Sardines are also one of the best sources of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and may help prevent osteoporosis.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The omega-3 fatty acids in sardines have anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as arthritis.
When incorporating sardines into your diet, it’s essential to consider the form in which you consume them. Fresh or canned sardines in water or olive oil are healthier options compared to those with sugars or high-sodium content added in the canning process.
Sardines are great staple food because they are:
Inexpensive
$1 a tin for sardines packed in water, $4 or so for fancier kinds
Shelf stable
keep them in your pantry at all times for a quick meal
Already cooked
Ready to eat, no prep or dishes to wash.
Nutritious!
Full of high quality protein and good fats
Sustainable
A sustainable fish low in mercury. USA sardines are a best choice for Seafood Watch. Sardines are small fish that are lower in the food chain, which means they tend to accumulate fewer contaminants like mercury compared to larger fish. This makes sardines a safer seafood option, especially for women in childbearing years and young children. (My 11 year old loves sardines!)
Versatile
Mash them on crackers, make a salad, turn them into a sandwich spread, cook into sauces.
How did I learn to eat sardines?
I was on a tuna/salmon salad kick, so learning to like sardines was an easy crossover.
I actually first tried sardines when I was in high school from a tin my dad had in our pantry.
At the time I thought they were OK, but not knowing they were so healthy or creative ways to make a sardine salad, I didn’t really make them a regular staple in my diet.
I believe this was my first time trying them!
I first started eating sardines years ago when I kept reading about them in health magazines as an under appreciated superfood. “If they are that nutritious I should be eating them!” I thought.
How to eat sardines:
I’ve seen grilled sardines on a menu in a restaurant before. I don’t know that I’ve seen fresh sardines at the grocery store, but I’m sure they are in some! Most often you’ll find them in a tin in the middle of the grocery store with the other tinned seafood.
I tell people: if you like tuna salad and you like fish, you’ll like sardines. If you aren’t so hot on fish, however, you probably won’t like them.
I prefer mine smoked (extra flavor) and I don’t eat them from the tin directly (although you certainly could). I tend to mash them up into salads, spreads and things.
Sardines are a member of the herring family so I often use sardines and herring interchangeably. Herring are a little bigger, but I can’t really tell much of a difference between them in taste.
When using canned fish, you can drain the liquid (e.g., water, extra virgin oil, or sauce) from the can before incorporating it into your recipes, which will help reduce the sodium if you’re watching your sodium intake for any reason.
Perhaps I need to do a side-by-side taste test…
Here are what they look like when you open the tin and drain them:
Do sardines have bones?
You can easily flake the fish to look like chunk light tuna. I think what scares people so much about “fish in a tin” is the thought of bones. But the bones are so soft and mashable – they are not like the fish bones you fear.
Sardine bones are soft
People think of bones as pointy, stiff and dangerous to eat. Sardine bones are soft and you mash them with the filets. They are where all the nutrients are!
You can’t even really see them:
How to eat sardines video!
Don’t be scared – just watch this video for a live demo of how to make a sardine salad:
My favorite sardine brands
As I mentioned before, sardines range in price from $1 (or less!) a tin up to $4-5 for fancier tinned fish brands.
The brand I’ve gotten most in the past is Trader Joe’s because I love the smoky flavor.
Sardines are actually at risk for overfishing.
The fish themselves are safe to eat (aka low in mercury), but the concern is the way they are caught, which leads to overfishing and putting the population at risk, so you have an environmental decision to make.
In fact, according to Seafood Watch, the U.S. Pacific sardine fishery is closed because the population numbers are too low.
Look for brands that are endorsed by the Marine Stewardship Council, Seafood Watch, or sustainably caught.
Wild Planet is always an easy choice for seafood, as all of their products are sustainably caught.
Sweet + Smoked
The brand Bar Harbor from Maine is also great! I love the sweet – savory combo of smoked + maple syrup. The maple flavor is subtle (think slightly sweet & smoky bbq sauce) and the fish is flakier and less fishy than other brands I’ve tried.
Sardine Recipes
I like to chop in all kinds of veggies – carrots, celery, peppers – plus add some binders in the form of mustard, mayo, Greek yogurt and then spice things up with salt, pepper, curry powder, smoked paprika, dill, lemon juice, capers and more.
How to make sardine salad:
Step 1: Drain and mash
Drain your sardines and mash them with a fork until you reach a uniform consistency.
Step 2: Add veggies
Add a quarter cup to half cup of chopped veggies
Step 3: Add binders
Mix in 1-2 teaspoons Dijon mustard and add 1 tablespoon mayo or Greek yogurt
Step 4: Add seasonings
Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of seasonings to taste
Step 5: Serve
Serve over greens, with chips, on a sandwich, with crackers, or simply eat with a fork.
Check these two posts for step-by-step how-tos!
Here is a massive list of just some of the ways I’ve enjoyed sardines and herring over the years:
Claire @ Health Nut Claire says
Should the skin be left on?
KathEats says
Yes, it just gets mashed in and is barely noticeable
Anne Weber-Falk says
Okay…I’ll do it. I will try to eat sardines. You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the bones. I freak when I see the bones. I can’t order fish in a restaurant because if I run into a bone I can’t finish the meal. We always had the tins in the house growing up. My dad liked them in mustard sauce on saltine crackers. My sister and I would run away when he’d offer them to us. Thanks for the great post. It’s made me a bit more confident. One of the best about super foods.
Lauren @ The Highlands Life says
I have never tried sardines by themselves before but have definitely had them atop a fancy ceasar salad and such. Maybe I need to grab some next time I’m at TJ’s or Whole Foods. We always need some more superfood in our lives.
Ali @ Peaches and Football says
I’ll admit it. I’m too scared to watch the video. I think my palms get a little sweaty just thinking of sardines. They’ve always been something that frightens me. I’m not a fish eater at all and I really wish I was because you’re right, the health benefits are amazing… But I can’t get past the smell and appearance… eek 🙂
Ashley says
Sardine oatmeal? Are you pregnant again?! 😉
KathEats says
Ha – no! That was from my April Fools post : )
Jenn says
I’m a big fish eater and sardines are one of my faves. But, when I saw the sardines on oatmeal, I have to admit I gagged a little. Yuck.
KathEats says
Don’t worry I didn’t eat them…although it really wasn’t that bad because they were the sweet and mild maple syrup ones. Not that far off from maple bacon!
Axel says
LOL omg I would totally eat sardines on oatmeal… savory steel cut oats? No? Yum!
Matthew Osborn says
I DO like sardine oatmeal! For a while it looked like “savory oatmeal” was going to be a big thing, but it didn’t get that big. Still, to me sardine oatmeal isn’t a joke, it’s warming, filling, satisfying, tasty, wholesome, healthy, and cheap. 🙂 I love it! Serious.
Carly @ Snack Therapy says
I’m not a huge fan of fish (even freshly caught fish) so anything like this totally freaks me out. I don’t know if I’d be able to eat a fishy little sardine. Maybe one day I’ll work up the courage ; ).
Liz says
I’m so glad you wrote this post. I picked up a tin of sardines after reading about all the health benefits and wasn’t quite sure what to do with them. I will look forward to preparing a delicious lunch :)!
Emily says
I think “Pacific/USA = good” is a bit confusing, as the Atlantic waters of the USA are fished as well. If Atlantic sardines are to be avoided due to unsustainable fishing methods, doesn’t that mean that not all USA fish are recommended?
KathEats says
It is confusing. And this was new research to me – so anyone feel free to chime in. But I think East Coast is OK – when they say Atlantic I think that includes European shores, so saying either Pacific or Atlantic from the US is what I was trying to get across.
Renee says
Have to chime in because my work involves fisheries. It’s actually much more complicated than that. There are many Western Atlantic populations that are overfished as well, most notably Atlantic cod. The easiest way is to just check Fish Watch from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. They have a website, pocket guides, and even an app.
KathEats says
Oh I was referring to sardines only. I do consult Seafood Watch for other fish – wonderful resource.
Hope says
I am always so interested when you post about eating sardines. I’ve just been too chicken to try it out. I will put it on my list for this weekend. I will try them!
Christine@ Apple of My Eye says
I didn’t know what a superfood sardines are! I’m going to pick some up next time I go to the store.
Thanks Kath!
SweatyGirl says
Mmm! I LOVE sardines! But I always eat them right out of the can, as is, or on crackers. I just had some for dinner last night!
I wish more people would try them, because they are so good and maybe they’d stop giving me the EEWWWW looks 🙂
Grace @ Grace Dishes says
Thank you for this post! I’ve been meaning to add sardines into my diet but forgot. This weekend’s grocery list will definitely have them on it!
Rachael says
I eat tinned sardines ALL the time. So easy for travel ( I am a sales rep that drives all over the place) and I don’t eat processed food from fast food places so these are perfect! After you get over the weirdness of it you will begin to love them! I even brought a bunch on a Europe trip with me so I could be sure to get some protein, fat, and nutrients in!
Mark says
I wish I had your wisdom when this post was made all those years ago my health might of been saved.
Marisa @ Uproot from Oregon says
Thank you for this post! I have followed your fishy adventures on top of salads and ended up trying the smoked trout from Trader Joes and LOVED IT. I will try sardines now in the same fashion. Love your video- thanks for the play by play, and I love getting some of your personality through the video : )
Alicia @ Wanna Be Ina says
I am wondering…have you tried feeding a little bit of mashed sardines to Mazen yet? My son (who is now 6) absolutely LOVES sardines. When we are out of sardines, and I get some at the grocery, he goes crazy, much like most kids would when you bring home candy (don’t get me wrong the kid loves candy too)! Anyway, I started giving him fish pretty young. I started with catfish at about 7 months (bear in mind my son had 8 teeth at 3 months), then salmon and tuna, and now the kid will eat any kind of seafood you offer him.
KathEats says
Yes! He loves fish! I haven’t tried shellfish yet though…a little scared!
alicia says
We waited until our son was old enough to communicate before we tried shellfish. He had a bad reaction to eggs about the third time he ate them, so we were a little hesitant with certain foods. He has since outgrown the egg allergy, and never had any other reactions.
KathEats says
Communicate so he could say “I’m feeling funny?” That’s smart.
Farah says
With shellfish (and the other 8 common allergens – milk wheat, soy, peanuts etc) aren’t you supposed to wait until the baby is 1 year old? So that their immune system has had time to mature (to avoid potential allergies)? I start a Pediatric Nutrition class on Monday so hopefully I’ll know the answer soon…just wondered if you had been told anything related to this…?
KathEats says
The recommendations just recently changed. They used to say wait and suspect that might be why there are so many more allergies now. So now the recommendation is introduce early, although it’s still scary!
Farah says
Ah ok – thanks for the feedback. I’ll let you know if I hear of/learn anything different in my Pediatric class this summer!
Maureen says
Really this completely depends on your child’s pediatrician and family history of allergies. We have no family history of allergies and ours still says to wait until 2 to introduce nuts and shellfish, and that early introduction has no correlation to the number of allergies; so it really all depends on what you read and who you talk to.
Anele @ Success Along the Weigh says
Okay, okay…I might actually just try these. I love tuna fish and if these are as close as you say, then I should like them. But yeah, the skin has got to go or I’ll retch just knowing it’s there! 🙂
KathEats says
I’m not sure you could peel it off? It’s soooo thin!
Jeanne Harrison says
Not all brands have the skin. I buy Season brand and wouldn’t like the skin either, although I may try the smoked ones from Trader Joe’s (don’t know if there’s skin).
Christine says
I bought a can from TJ a few months ago and still have not opened it…LOL. Baby steps I guess!
Liz says
I have tried sardines once many many years ago and didn’t like them. However I love tuna fish. I assume tuna fish doesn’t have the same properties as sardines… Will get some sardines this weekend and give them another try
Stacey says
Glad you explained more on ‘how’ to eat them 🙂 The idea of sardines has always freaked me out, but I’m not sure why? I LOVE fish and eat it 3 times a week so I really need to get with it!
Megan says
So, this feels like a silly question, but . . . I was going to try sardines a couple months ago because I’d heard about their great nutritional benefits and have a friend who swears by them. When I picked up a tin in the store, however, I saw “smoked” and put them back because I’m pregnant. Are sardines generally just smoked or are they fully cooked? I would love a low mercury option for fish salads!
KathEats says
That’s a great question. I think all canned foods have been high heat pressurized so they are OK to eat. Whereas smoked salmon has only been smoked.
Matt says
My suspicion is that not only are the fish smoked, but then in a separate step they are pressure-canned. Pressure-canning sterilizes stuff, and therefore makes it so you can store it at room temp. But not an expert here!
karenb says
I get them packed in olive oil and drain the oil into a bowl to make a dressing with it. Dijon, hot sauce and lemon juice whisked into the fishy oil, then pour it all back over the sardines. It’s delicious!
Great post, I wish more people would eat sardines. Or at least let me eat them without making faces!
Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen says
You make them look goof that I want to try them!
Kelly K says
This post has been very helpful to me, a sardine-phobe. I want to try them, I do, because of the health benefits, and I enjoy most fish. But I’ve seen them with the heads on and avoided them mostly because of that. I don’t see heads on yours! Are there certain varieties that leave the heads on? (Sorry, I just really hate fish heads!)
Farah says
Thanks for this post! I keep eyeing the sardines at TJs – thinking I should really try them, but never have the courage. I may just do it this week 🙂 Never in oatmeal tho 😉
Rachel says
I’ve been considering trying sardines for a while. Haven’t tried them since I worked at Pizza Hut a million years ago. We’re headed to Trader Joe’s this weekend I will have to pick some up. Excited to try them I love tuna salad. Thanks for the info!
Kara says
Kath,
Have you ever tried the Natural Sea brand? I too love sardines and this is one of my favorite brands.
These come skinless and boneless so it may be suited for someone who is turned off by the skin and bones.
KathEats says
cool. I haven’t noticed it but maybe it’s at WF and I’ve overlooked
Matt says
I think a big reason that sardines are a generally feared food goes back to cartoons and such as kids. Don’t you remember when cartoons wanted to gross kids out they would show spinach, limburger cheese, and canned fish (like sardines and anchovies)? My first taste of sardines was eating them on a dare in high school. I was pretty grossed out until I actually took the bite and then anticlimactically was like, “Oh it’s just canned tuna… and it’s pretty good!”
PS anchovies are delicious too
Kathleen says
I think the scene from The ‘Burbs probably help, either. Although I’d be lying if I said I don’t laugh out loud every time I watch it still.
Kathleen says
Oh shoot. Probably *didn’t* help, either. Proofreading. I’m… apparently not so good at it.
Susan @Susonia.com says
My husband is Swedish, and we always make a potato dish with anchovies (and onions, cream and butter…), called ‘Jansson’s Frestelse’ or our Christmas buffet. I’m not huge on canned (or pickled) fish, but the anchovies really only give it a really salty flavor.
Eileen says
Well, I’ve definitely been in the sardine-phobia boat, even though I love tuna and practically all fresh fish. I did have fresh sardines once at an amazing Senegalese restaurant–tasty, but big enough that you could slice the filet off the spine like any ordinary fish. No bone intimidation there! So it looks like my next step is to go try out a can. Your salad suggestions are super helpful–I wouldn’t know where to start otherwise!
Jodi says
I never used to like sardines when I was a teenager. Now that I am an adult, I have fallen in love with the fish. I love it with crackers and it serves as an amazing snack. The smell can be a turn off but the taste is amazing.
Nicole says
Thanks for this. I’ve been wondering about your reasoning behind eating sardines and I love the convenient list of recipes all layed out for me. I’ve been wanting to get on the sardine train, so this should definitely help. I remember trying them in a class in elementary school and I was one of the only kids that liked them. I guess it’s time to try it again.
Btw, I love the new format you’ve taken with your blog. I love learning more from your dietetic education, while still getting to see your fun meals. Following your blog for the last couple years has really changed the way I eat and feed my family. I love your point of view on food and appreciate that you are not overly strict of eating this way or that way. So many food bloggers are extremely strict and judgmental so it’s refreshing to see someone who just enjoys food and health and doesn’t have an agenda. Thanks for just being you and for sharing your knowledge and views with us!
KathEats says
Thanks Nicole!
APRIL DJIBONON says
I appreciate the post, but Yikes!!!!
Emily @ Life on Food says
Just not sure I am quite there yet for having this be a staple in my house.
Laura says
Ewwwwwwwwww. Just seeing the open tin of them drained made me want to gag. I’m not a big fish eater (will only touch cod right now) and the thought of eating sardines makes me feel sick. Yuck Yuck Yuck! I love to eat healthy though so I wish the thought of them wasn’t so gross 🙂
KathEats says
Now, now
Katherine says
ha! amazing comment.
Maggie @ Sunnyside Up Smile says
These look so good! I didn’t know that they were so good for you 🙂 I love fish and I’m on a canned salmon kick right now! I’ll definitely be trying these on my next trip to Sprouts or Trader Joe’s. I wonder how they would taste with avocado in a sandwich….
Christi says
I love them with mashed avocado on toast, goes really well together in my opinion.
Christi says
I never thought I could actually like sardines but they really are delicious. I always buy the wild planet varieties and decided to try to marinara on a whim. I know it sounds so gross to people but I use them to make mini “pizzas.” I use Ezekiel bread or pitas, toast them in the broiler on one side then top them with the sardines/marinara, mozzarella and sometimes onions or bell peppers. I then broil them and I think this may be my favorite way to eat them. My dad used to try to gross us out when he ate sardines and crackers but once I incorporated them into my diet I was surprised at how mild they taste. I was diagnosed with Lupus three years ago and my doctor suggested sardines to me because they are high in Vitamin B12. I didn’t think I would ever be able to stomach them but I enjoy them at least once a week now. I’ve never bought the ones packed in oil but I think I will have to try the smoked ones because those sound great.
Karen says
Though I don’t eat fish myself, this is an awesome post – filled with great health/nutrition info! Terrific work, Kath!
Have a happy Fourth!
Chelsea @ Designs on Dinner says
I love this “all about sardine” post–I’m crazy for canned fish!
natasha says
I tried Sardines for the 1st time a few months ago and was pleasantly surprised. My toddler will also eat them up as long as they are on a cracker.
jenna k says
i love sardines! i always knew they were “supposed” to be gross, but i never really thought they were very gross, so i really don’t get all the “ewwwww nasty” that everyone does about them lol. to people freaked out by the “skin,” you’re probably imagining skin like on fried chicken, which is super thick and weird, but it’s not really like that at all! you can SORT OF flake it off, but i can’t tell a difference in taste or texture.
i don’t think i knew that they are low in mercury- that’s great to know! i actually like them best straight from the tin. 🙂 the big bone (spine?) does sort of freak me out, but i just don’t look at it, and i like having the big chunks of meat. drain, squeeze some honey mustard on, and eat with toast and cheese! that with fruit/veggie is the perfect lunch! i’ve been wanting to try the maple kind since you first posted about it… yum!
Mary says
I had no idea so many people were scared of sardines!
I do buy them, but I give them to my greyhound, who loves them. But this has reminded me to eat them again!
Kel says
One of my favorite breakfasts is Fisherman’s Eggs.
Heat oven to 450 degrees, then heat a pan like a cast iron for 5 minutes.
Toss in one can of sardines, including the oil!, a handful of chopped parsley, one minced garlic, and a shallot, sliced. Cook for 6 minutes.
After 6 minutes, crack an egg (or two 😉 ) over this and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes or until your desired level of doneness.
Devour and enjoy! 🙂
Looking forward to checking out the other sardine recipe links!
Kel says
I should mention my second favorite way to eat sardines…
Place a cup of good sauerkraut (Bubbies is an amazing brand) in a bowl, then open up a can of mustard sardines and place on top. Scoop and eat just like that!
I know, I know, everyone I share this with scrunches up their nose at me, but this is SO GOOD. I am salivating now thinking about it!
Sherry says
Actually I am digging this one! I just had some sardines with sweet pickled peppers. The tart flavor really compliments the Sardines.
Katie @ Real Food Katie's Way says
That is IT Kath. I’m diving right in to the world of sardines. You’ve given me no choice 😉 I too think to myself “man, I know these are good for me and I really should eat them!” so now I’m just going to go for it. The bones are what give me the heebies. Not just with sardines. Salmon too. I’ve just got to get over it!
Sarah W. says
Okay, I’m so tempted to try sardines now…but a little hesitant. I hate tuna fish in a can but like smoked salmon…do you think sardines are more tuna-tasting or more in the smoked salmon range (if I got smoked sardines, perhaps?) 🙂
KathEats says
Maybe right in the middle? Although….I think tuna is the closest relative…try ’em!!
Christina says
I LOVE this post, Kath! I didn’t think anyone was as obsessed about sardines as I am!! I spend A LOT of my grocery spending on sardines at Trader Joe’s. 🙂 They are so incredibly healthy, especially if you have dietary restrictions. I have Crohn’s disease and sardines are one of those rare foods I can digest and absorb all the wonderful nutrients from…plus they taste delicious!!
Live Love Yum says
Love this post – very informative. I have a can of Sardines sitting in my pantry for a while now…I might take the plunge now! 🙂
Olivia says
I bought a can from TJs a while ago – after one of your sardine posts, I believe – but I’ve yet to open the can. I brought them to work with me and, fearing my colleagues might toss me out on my keester for smelling up the floor, I never did anything with them. Then my office fridge began to smell funny and it seemed as though the can leaked or something, so I dumped em. That settled my “gosh, I really need to do something with these sardines” dilemma. However, it really didn’t solve anything because I really want to get into the swing of the sardine thing. Hmmm, maybe this weekend…
M Baker says
Thanks for such a helpful post. I have always loved sardines, and used to eat them plain. Your addition of Dijon mustard and yogurt makes them even better. That was my lunch today, with some rice crackers. Excellent. Again, many thanks. A tasty new way to enjoy sardines. (I do agree about adding veg., but I was running late.)
Kim @ Healthy Living in the City says
I’m typically not a fan of tuna salad, but I might have to give sardine salad a try! I didn’t realized just how good they were for you. Loved the KERF Kitchen video as well as variety of brands out there that you shared.
L Pearson says
Great post!! I have never tried sardines but will now! Thanks for a great website! I love reading KERF!!!
Q. says
Love this post! #1 -My dad always ate sardines while I was growing up (in Newport News, VA)
#2-Now I love to eat sardines, though I didn’t as a child
#3-I ate them (and served them to my husband) for supper this very evening
#4-I grew up in the south and would NEVER use the word “pop” for a soft drink
#5-Now I live in the “north” (PA), where they use such strange words as “you’ns” in place of “y’all”
Q.
jen says
My dad loved sardines also. I have never tried, but reading this is helping me get ready to try. I need to have another easy, quality, whole30 compliant protein to add to my repertiore. I’m on a fresh salmon kick.. I get a whole (wild caught) salmon filet every week, bake it and usually divide into about 9 portions…easy peasy for breakfast, lunch or dinner!
I will buy sardines this weekend, and prepare to be amazed. Thank you for the reassurance and encouragement!
Q… I think that is spelled ‘yinz’ …lol
Cosmos says
I’ve been eating sardines for a few years now after seeing them on your blog. I love the nutritional profile and that they are shelf stable. I toss them of top of salads.
S.P. Gass says
I like to eat them in out of the can on crackers. What’s really great are the jars of herring in white wine but those cost more than a buck.
Mom says
Well even though I’m your mom and I take your advice on a lot of things, I’m not ready to take the sardine plunge…
Amy @ www.funfoodiefamily.wordpress.com says
The poor sardine. I love the sardines and anchovies in those adorable glass jars packed in olive oil. In Sweden there a popular potato au gratin dish with herring in it. If you add potatoes and cheese, I am in!
Lynn says
I know that this sounds silly, but I am afraid to try sardines. I am find with eating all sorts of fish, but I shudder at sardines. Therefore I am going to grab one of your recipies and give it a go this weekend. I’ll keep you posted.
Cecilia says
I’ve never ever tried sardines. I admit it, I’m scared to try them. But I might have to conquer my fear for the health benefit.
Laura says
I loved this post! Good info and fun recipes.
Andrea says
I really like the maple ones you posted. I mix them with a swiss laughing cow and maybe a little carrots/celery/onion if I have them on hand. Strange but good.
Anita says
Love you blog
Just had a quick question is it ok to consume sardines when you are pregnant verses tuna?
KathEats says
Yes. They are low mercury
Katherine says
yum! I think I might actually try this 😛
Happy 4th!
http://therealfoodrunner.blogspot.com
Leslie says
You inspired me. I went to the grocery store and bought sardines yesterday. Haven’t eaten them yet, but for the first time ever I have a tin of sardines in my pantry. Baby steps!
Katherine says
I LOVE this post. Maybe my favorite EVER? And I have been reading for a long time!
I am just like you, love the taste, dont look, and enjoy! Such a baby about it, but its oh-so–delish when it just looks like tuna salad!
ds says
Hi Kath! How do the health benefits of sardines and salmon compare? Thanks!
KathEats says
They are both fatty fish with omega-3s but sardines take the cake for more calcium + vitamin D thanks to the bones
Drake says
Just a comment. Salmon do not produce omega-3 fatty acids, rather they acquire it from eating other fish that contain omega-3’s, namely sardines. Sardines consume plankton and that is the source of the omega-3’s.
Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says
This post is perfect timing- I’ve been wanting to experiment with sardines but have been scared to try them because I grew up thinking they were disgusting! I really need to get over it and mashing them into salads is a great idea. Thanks!!
Ellie@Fit for the soul says
I love how you have such a non-picky palate! I loooooove love sardines and any kind of fish, really (the stinkier the better). So to see you feature one of my favorites (and feared by most) is pretty cool. 😀
Jen says
Thanks for this post! I’ve never tried sardines, but I think I’m going to try them for breakfast tomorrow! I need a good new source of protein and think this may be it!
Tracy says
Headed to my pantry now….
Well done! You have me craving sardines as it’s been a while. You originally turned me on to the yumminess (and nutrition) of sardines and I’ve never looked back 🙂
Here’s a link to more canned sardine ideas:
http://www.chow.com/food-news/47126/7-things-to-do-with-canned-sardines/
Brenda says
My discomfort with sardines stems from the fact that unless you get only fillets, the fish still have their guts, correct? My understanding is only large sardines get “eviscerated”, so the smaller ones still have their digestive tracts, which are hopefully purged, but that’s not guaranteed. The idea of eating a fish’s lunch still in the fish is…..unsettling to me. Are you eating the filets only? Or are they too small for that to be a possibility?
KathEats says
I have nt ever seen the gi like you do in a mussel or shrimp. There are also no heads so I think they have been prepped
Lisa says
Just picked up some Bar Harbor. You sold me on the maple flavor! I am going to try it on some French bread in the morning.
CanadianKristin says
Not sure if this was mentioned, but TJ offers a ‘boneless, skinless’ option in canned sardines… a good place to start if you are freaked out by the skin and bones! Mmmmm…. sardines out of the can, yum!
Mary Beth says
Ok, you finally convinced me. I just bought my first can of sardines.
Krissy Claud says
It’s amazing how you can do a lot of things to sardines! It looks delicious in all of your dishes and in all the ways you ate it. I can’t wait to try doing the sardine salad you made on your video tutorial! Thanks for sharing this, I am actually convinced in trying to eat sardines after knowing how healthy it is and that there are many ways to prepare it!
Neil Butterfield says
I love sardines. Mash them up with vinegar, chopped onion, salt and pepper and make a freash bread sandwich with them. Absolutely delicious. If you don’t have fresh bread then make an open toasted sandwich, also delicious.
Jill says
I eat perhaps too many sardines…like 3 – 4 tins per week! I eat it all too (each tin I think is about 3-4 ounces). Just convenient in summer heat when not desiring to cook…afraid I might make myself sick of them though…their good on rice cakes with a side of avocado/veggie salad.
Sarah Williams says
I just bought two varieties of sardines (lemon, and plain in olive oil) and one of smoked harring to try with my groceries today! 98 cents each! Thanks for your foodspiration!
Teri says
So it’s been awhile since I have had sardines. I can remember my mom’s quick little snack of sardines, some mustard and crackers. Happen to be in WF & sardines by Bar Harbor where on sale. Decided to to try smoked sardines over a bed of sauteed fresh spinach. Love you blog, thank you for sharing. I have learned so much about eating healthy whole food.
Lara says
Great to read about sardines. I think sardines get a bit of a bad rap. A lot of people screw their nose up at the thought but they really are awesome. Lightly smoked sounds great. I’ve been messing around with the larger fresh sardines as well. Give them a try for lunch with a few veges. Healthy, filling and tasty. Massive fan
Edna says
I do like sardines, especially on toast with lemon, but I did not eat it very often until now.
I never actually thought they were so healthy so thanks for the good news! 🙂
Maggie says
Hi there I would like too know if you can buy mashed sardine, or you buy plane sardine and mash it yourself
KathEats says
I think they only come whole to mash
Lyna says
Yum ! Found appetizing assurance right here. I was having doubts about the ” disappearance” of the “risky” bones & “snaky-looking-but-filmy?!” skins in my whimsical ( 2nd time ever & not straight out of the can this time) dinner of Thai sardines mashed into blanched green peas & soy salad with spicy rice balls. A second helping is now gone … Mild on the smell & tang too. I want more !
Barbara Garcia says
Great post! I grew up with sardines on plain, white no-nutrition bread….still a comfort food. I forgot about them for awhile, then, not remembering the brand I grew up on, took a chance and…darned if they didn’t have their heads still on. Yeah, right in the trash as it turned my stomach. Anyway, great suggestions. I can’t wait to try the one with sauerkraut. Thanks!!
Le Trotteur says
Thanks for this lively post and blog! I was reading it while preparing a tuna sandwich… The tuna never got out of the can! I took the sardine can I had bought the previous day, out of curiosity. I quickly mixed the fish with mexican salsa wrapped it in a tortilla. After tasting it, I can announce that this tuna can is going to stay in the pantry for a little while!
Robotech_Master says
Wow, this is like an epiphany. I’d never realized you could mash them up with stuff. I always just put them between two slices of bread as-is and ate them that way. I think I like your way better. 🙂
By the way, if you’ve ever seen the movie “The Triplets of Belleville,” the food “Champion” eats to prepare for his race is mashed potatoes and sardines. It looks rather unappetizing in the movie, but it’s apparently actually one of the filmmaker’s favorite foods.
Mary B says
Bought my first sardines ever today, at Ollie’s. Mostly, I wanted to satisfy my curiosity about whether or not they were really canned “head, guts, and all” like I’d heard. But, on the shelf beside the cans, were pouches, for 59 cents, and the picture on the pouch did not include heads, and I decided I’d try headless sardines before daring to open a can. Then, I had no idea what to do with them, so Google brought me to you.
I am relieved that you have described them as a lot like tuna. I love eating the bones of canned salmon, so softened bones are no problem. I just don’t want them to look as icky as canned mackerel. I can eat mackerel – just not comfortably. And, I don’t want guts, or heads. Glad to read I probably won’t find them in the pouch, or a can.
—-
If the sardines taste anything like I am now imagining, I might use them to flavor bean soup. A friend doing a religious fast that did not include “meat” showed up at dinner time and I’d cooked up a big pot of unseasoned beans that were going to be divided between black bean brownies, and a nice ham flavored soup.
No ham? No ham! Maybe salmon was salty and flavorful enough to stand in for it? Tried a bite of beans with a bite of salmon. Success! The can of salmon went into the beans, juice and all. It was great!
Drake says
I love to make fish tacos with sardines or canned herring and definitely include fresh made guacamole. I often use cabbage as my wrap in place of a tortilla.
Chaoszen says
People seem oblivious to the fact that 6 sardines to a tin was standard. What will you say when there is 2 sardines? Or perhaps 1 sardine?. Will you just blindly accept the discrepancy? How about when they just start selling you sardine juice in a tin. Wake up people. The rich are ripping you off daily. And laughing all the way.
KathEats says
Lol!?
Matt says
I LOVE sardines, but I’m looking to buy them in glass! S.O.S.!!!
James says
I always eat sardines with a bit of tomato sauce on the sides, but after repeating this recipe all over I became tired of eating them, thankfully you shared some new recipes for me to try out, I’ll give this a shot when I get home, thanks again for this post 🙂
Michael says
I stumbled on this post looking for new ways to eat sardines, for those of you that are afraid to try them, it is okay, I am sure that you would not like them anyways… the last thing I would want is a bunch of new sardine lovers, there would be less for me. :o) I am just kidding of course, remember you are top of the food chain so there is nothing to be afraid of, and they are so so so good. Here is one of the ways I like to eat sardine. Start with Sardines in oil, mix with a table spoon or so of minced onions and a splash of vinegar, scoop on a club cracker and enjoy.
meg says
You’ve totally sold me on sardines & they are a solid part of my lunch rotation now. Do you think these recipes/flavor combos would work with anchovies too?
KathEats says
Anchovies are so much more potent to me, that I’m not sure these salads would work the same. But maybe mixed in with sardines they would add some delicious flavor!
meg says
That makes sense – thanks!
economizer says
A local store sells huge oval tins of BIG sardines for $1.29, but they are packed in insipid tomatoey goo.
To make them edible, I rinse the tomato sauce away with warm water, and break the fish up, mixing it with chopped Korean napa cabbage kimchi to taste, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavor. This is good over hot rice and makes a quick, healthy meal.
Fonda Yarman says
I’m a pescatarian so fish is of utmost importance in my diet. My husband is not a Vegi~pescatarian so I need lots of help. Finding out that fish has lots of D in it well not that much but some herring is much higher 1100 IU of Vit D and Sardines canned 270 IU Vit D! I will opt for the herring bigger bang for the buck… Thanks for sharing about sardines ???? although D is a complicated vitamin to me I must become aware of other key foods to eat toto promote the dynamics between, D, A, Calcium, K2 and menaquilone … I’m reading a book called, ‘Vitamin K2and the Calcium Paradox: How a Little Known Vitamin Could Save Your Life’ have you read it and if so I’d like your thoughts on the read!
Fondly
Fonda
Hazel says
Favorite way to eat canned Sardines… Sarde al Finocchio
Put sardine fillets on a bed of thinly sliced fennel ( sometimes I add chopped arugula)
Sprinkle with fresh oregano and red chile pepper flakes.
Dress with olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
Divine summer dish that I am now having for dinner…
KathEats says
Yum!
Stephanie says
I think sardines would be good in kimchi fried rice, a recipe I found that features salmon instead of the standard pork. I don’t have the URL handy but I believe the creator is MJ and Hungryman (or something similar) but I bet it would be really tasty, just different from the usual wild caught sockeye salmon I normally use. I’m inspired to try it this week.
Amy L Skibo says
I love how Americanized, basic, and pampered everyone’s palette is that says”I cant do it.” Grow up.
Lynn D. says
So… my dad’s favorite sandwich was sardine fillets with peanut butter. I’m not kidding. He always said, “Don’t knock it until you try it!”
I’ve been missing him since Father’s Day, so I bought some sardines. I’m not sure that I can bring myself to eat the sandwich (it’s been about 40 years since I had it), but I may do a salad.
Kath Younger says
Wow that’s a combo I haven’t tried!!
AliceK says
My dad ate peanut butter and sardine sandwiches, too! I always thought he made it up. Sometimes he put some sliced onions on there, too. Wonder where that even came from? I love fish of all kinds, from anchovies to wahoo. But I have never had the nerve to try peanut butter with sardines!
Kath Younger says
I love weird combos, but sardines, PB and onions is one I’m not sure I would try!
Rewari says
i love sardines right out of the can. i eat one can everyday and i savor it.
Rachel says
Hi! I stumbled upon this as I was trying to research the best sardines for my toddler (who seems to gobble sardines up with a passion, like his dad). What are your thoughts on the smoking process, specifically, does it concern you that smoked sardines contain nitrates from the smoking process (potentially cancer-causing)? I’m torn between allowing my 1 year old to eat an exceptionally healthy food and wanting to protect him from the nitrates in them from the smoking!
Kath Younger says
I’m not worried about smoked meats as much as I would be on char grilled. So I think it’s fine, but if he’s going to eat a LOT of them (which is awesome!) I would see if he likes the regular non-smoked ones if you’re worried.
Farvista says
Grampa used to eat sardines on saltine crackers. Everyone says they’re soooo healthy, SO…I bought a tin of sardines, and I set them in my pantry. Check that box. I’m being healthy!
I look at them from time to time, and think “Yep. I’m going to eat those little freaks. Any time now. Yep. But….not just today.”
Soooo, I came here to try to gin up to cracking that can and getting to it. What’s my PROBLEM? I eat salmon, bottom-feeding shrimp, fish my family catches, I eat freakin’ SMOKED OYSTERS! I even eat lactate that’s been stolen from hairy ungulates, clotted, packed into a hole to go lumpy and stinky, then sold in chunks. (AKA – Cheese).
How can I be wigged out by our friend, the humble sardine?
So, TODAY is the day! Except, it’s 9 p.m. so….Tomorrow is the day!
Yep.
Kath Younger says
Haha!!
STEVE says
I’ve been eating sardines packed in water for years because of how healthy they are but have never been too crazy about the taste. I always chop them up into salads and I always split them and remove the bones and entrails first, ever since I got a can with a couple of sardines with eggs within them. Not good. Nothing like caviar. Anyhow, last week at Trader Joe’s I decided to try the smoked sardines and herring. Delicious, much tastier than the ones in water however when looking at the ingredients and comparing TJ’s smoked sardines in olive oil with TJ’s sardines in water and accounting for the serving size differential, I noticed that there was a huge difference in sodium and cholesterol. Surprisingly the smoked ones end up having 195 mg sodium per can while the ones in water have 300 mg sodium per can. I don’t believe it. Smoked anything is always much saltier. Maybe there’s a difference between Canadian and Portuguese sardines. Crazy nitpickers like me need to know. 🙂 Thanks for the recipes.
Liz P. says
I know this is an older post but I had to comment! Sardines are so underrated for how healthy they are!! I figured I’d share a newer brand of sardines that I recently cam across that are ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS! I highly recommend you give Atlantic Brand sardines a try! They’re already blanched, very meaty and flavorful and come in a BPA free tin. I recommend the olive oil flavor! Dropping a link for you all to try: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09CLVY9BP?ref=myi_title_dp&th=1