Fried Sardines Stuffed with Chermoula is a classic Moroccan recipe that's easy to prepare. Double fillets of sardine are stuffed with a spicy marinade called chermoula before being dredged in flour and pan-fried. If you've never tried sardines, this recipe is sure to win you over.
Start by preparing the chermoula. In a bowl, mix together:
- 1 bunch fresh coriander (cilantro), finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed or finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper or hot paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- juice of 1 small lemon
Adjust the seasoning to your own preferences. Chermoula is typically a bit salty and zesty, but you can make it milder or spicier.

