Fried sardines are a popular dish among Porto residents, and they are considered the second most important meal for many people. They are not only delicious, but also good for your health, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Imagine sitting by the water's edge, whether it be the cold Atlantic Ocean or a golden Douro River, watching wrinkled fishermen play cards while sardines fry in front of you. There is something magical about this dish, which is known as Sardinhada, and it has a special place in Porto culture. Watching the sardines cook over a charcoal grill adds a festive atmosphere to the event. The fact that the fish were caught only a few hours before makes it even more special. They are typically served with boiled potatoes, garlic, fried peppers, and bread.
To enjoy a delicious sardine, you should eat until you are satisfied. Then, if you want, you can eat more. When you finish, you may smell like fried sardines, but that's okay! It means you have experienced the culture of Porto.
Remember that a grilled sardine has three layers: the skin (crispy and salty), the meat (tender and white), and the guts and bones (for cats and seagulls). The guts and bones should not be eaten, as they are meant for animals.
The most important holiday in Porto, which takes place on June 23-24, is accompanied by the ritual of frying sardines on the streets. To truly experience this, you should visit Porto during this time.
Finally, if you are looking for a place to enjoy this delicious delicacy, Porto has many options.
