Marinated Fried Sardines (Sardinas Fritas en Adobo)

1. 1

   Butterfly the sardines, leaving them joining at the back and pulling out the bone with your fingers.

2. 2

   In a shallow bowl large enough to hold the sardines, combine the water, vinegar, garlic, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

3. 3

   Place the sardines skin side up in this mixture and marinate for several hours, refrigerated.

4. 4

   Drain the sardines well on paper towels and fold them back together.

5. 5

   Dust with flour.

6. 6

   Heat the oil at least 1/2-inch deep to about 380 degrees F. Or, better, use a deep-fryer.

7. 7

   Coat the sardines with the beaten egg and place directly in the hot oil.

8. 8

   Fry until golden, drain, and serve.

9. 9

   Variation: Sardines are also delicious without a marinade.

10. 10

    Simply coat with flour (not necessary to remove bones) and fry, or eliminate the flour and grill them.

11. 11

    Sprinkle with coarse salt.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.