Sardine fried rice is one of the best ways to enjoy the health benefits of sardines!
Tender rice is stir fried with a combination of fresh vegetables, savory soy sauce and nutritious sardines for a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
If you love Chinese takeout, give this fun twist on fried rice a try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- A great way to use leftover rice.
- High in protein and healthy fats.
- Budget-friendly pantry meal.
- Made in just one skillet for easy cleanup.
- Delicious on its own or as a side dish for a main course.
- A life saver for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.
Ingredients
- Sardines, packed in oil
- Cooked white rice
- Eggs
- Green onions
- Jalapeño peppers
- Shallot
- Fresh garlic
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
How to Make Sardine Fried Rice
Prep the Veggies
Chop the scallions, separating the white parts from the green parts. Then, mince the garlic and shallot and dice the jalapeños. Be sure to remove the seeds from the jalapeños and wash your hands thoroughly after handling them. ‘
Scramble the Eggs
Start by scrambling the eggs and then set them aside. Wipe the pan clean and then start on the stir fry.
Saute the Vegetables
Saute the minced garlic, shallots, diced jalapeño peppers and the white parts of the scallions in a little bit of sesame oil until they’re softened.
Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add the sardines to the veggies in the pan, breaking them up into smaller pieces. Then, add the rice and soy sauce. Cook everything together until it’s well combined.
The last thing you’ll do before serving is stir in the scrambled eggs and green parts of the scallions.
Serving Suggestions
1. Main Course: This sardine fried rice is delicious as a main meal. Consider serving it with a side of Asian cucumber salad or miso soup.
2. Side Dish: Enjoy this fried rice on the side of a main protein like teriyaki chicken.
3. Garnishes: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the rice or drizzle a creamy spicy sauce like sriracha mayo for a little heat.
Variations
1. Add more veggies like edamame, broccoli, bell pepper or sweet peas.
2. Stir in spicy kimchi for a Korean-inspired twist.
3. Turn this fried rice into a sushi-inspired sardine rice bowl by topping the rice with sliced avocado, cucumber, nori strips, and spicy mayo.
4. Add curry powder for a unique flavor similar to mei fun.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers to an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
For easy reheating, use the microwave. Alternatively, warm the leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
Are Sardines Good for You?
Absolutely! Sardines are one of the most nutrient-dense seafood options available.
They are rich in:
- Protein
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
- Calcium
- Selenium
Because sardines are small fish, they generally contain lower levels of mercury than many larger fish, making them a smart seafood choice for most people.
They’re also shelf-stable, affordable and incredibly versatile. They add a distinctive richness to many dishes like this fried rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Either one works, but freshly cooked rice tends to be softer. Leftover rice gives more of that authentic fried rice texture.
Any good-quality canned sardines will work. Sardines packed in olive oil offer the richest flavor, while those packed in water are a lighter option. I recommend sardines packed in oil.
Yes! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu.
When you make this sardine fried rice recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a rating or leave a comment below.
For more sardine recipes, try these:
- Sardine Eggs (Fisherman’s Eggs)
- Sardine Pasta with Lemon and Capers
- Sardine Toast with Tomatoes and Onions
Sardine Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 2 3.75 oz. cans boneless skinless sardines in oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 jalapeño peppers
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 bunch scallions (green onions)
- 1 shallot
- 1 Tbsp. sesame oil
- 5 tsp. soy sauce
Instructions
- Coat a frying pan with nonstick cooking spray. Place it over medium heat. Scramble the eggs and set aside.
- Prep the vegetables: dice the scallions, separating the green and white parts. Remove the seeds from the jalapeños and dice. Mince the garlic and shallot.
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Saute the whites of the scallions, jalapeños, garlic and shallots in the oil until softened.
- Place sardines, in their oil, into the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break them into smaller pieces.
- Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the pan. Toss to coat.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the scrambled eggs and green parts of the scallions.
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