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Sardines often get a bad rap, but when prepared right, they’re incredibly delicious. These little fish are about to become your new carnivore cuisine obsession.
For strict carnivores, stick to sardines in water, brine, or their natural fish oils. For those with a more flexible approach, high-quality olive oil is a reasonable choice, but avoid seed oils entirely.
Here are 5 sardine recipes that’ll leave you coming back for seconds!
1. Sardine Cakes (Air Fryer Sardine Fritters)
Who says fish cakes can’t be carnivore-friendly? For a pure carnivore version of these sardine fritters, simply eliminate any non-carnivore ingredients like bell pepper, capers, and lemon zest.
Focus on mashed sardines, egg, a sprinkle of salt and use ground pork rinds instead of panko. To ensure a crispy finish, air fry the patties or pan-fry them in a generous amount of animal fat, such as bacon grease or tallow.
These sardine cakes are packed with protein and healthy fats, offering a rich and satisfying meal for those following a strict carnivore diet.
Credit goes to Summer Yule for the original recipe.
2. Grilled Sardine Skewers
These grilled sardine skewers are a quick, flavorful dish perfect for outdoor grilling. Simply skewer whole sardines, brush with your choice of animal fat (like butter or ghee), and season with salt.
Grill until crispy on the outside and tender inside. Skip any plant-based ingredients like lemon or herbs if you want to keep the recipe strictly carnivore. For added richness, you can brush the sardines with more melted fat during grilling. These skewers are easy to make and perfect for a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Ideal for anyone on a meat-only diet!
See the original recipe at Cottage Delight
3. Sardine Rillettes-Stuffed Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs get a savory upgrade with sardine rillettes, making them a perfect carnivore-friendly snack or appetizer. For the rillettes, combine sardines with a bit of cream cheese, and season with your choice of spices (you can skip spices and lemon juice and zest for a purer carnivore version).
Mash in the boiled yolks and mix well. Spoon the rich sardine filling into halved egg whites and serve. This indulgent, protein-packed treat is simple to make and sure to impress. For those on a strict carnivore diet, skip any non-animal-based ingredients and enjoy a deliciously meaty bite!
Take a look at Club Des Millionnaires for the original recipe.
4. Sardine Omelette
Why settle for a basic omelet when you can elevate it with protein-packed sardines? Start by whisking eggs, then add a can of sardines for a rich, salty flavor.
For a carnivore-friendly version, skip any plant-based ingredients like onion that you find in the original recipe. Instead simply focus on eggs, sardines, and seasoning with salt. If you want extra richness, you can add a bit of cream or butter, but keep it simple for a true carnivore dish. This hearty omelet is perfect for a satisfying breakfast that will keep you full and energized all morning.
Find the original recipe at Go Cook Yummy.
5. Sardines Baked in Tallow
Baked sardines in tallow are a delicious and can be made into a carnivore-friendly dish. Start by coating fresh or frozen sardines with melted tallow, sea salt, and (optionally) spices like rosemary and parsley. Bake at 200ºC (390ºF) for 20 minutes, until the sardines are crispy and tender.
For a flavorful finishing touch, skip the lemon sauce and instead drizzle the sardines with extra beef tallow or marrow butter for added richness. This simple method brings out the natural flavors of the sardines while keeping the recipe entirely meat-based and free of any plant ingredients. It’s a quick, satisfying meal packed with savory goodness.
Get the original recipe at Greek Goes Keto.
You Too Can Change Your Carnivore Game!
Sardines are a hidden gem in the carnivore diet, offering a rich, flavorful, and protein-packed option for every meal. Whether you’re making crispy fritters, a hearty omelet, or grilled skewers, these small fish can elevate your diet with minimal effort.
By skipping plant-based ingredients and focusing on the pure essence of sardines, eggs, and animal fats, you can create satisfying and nutrient-dense dishes. Embrace the versatility of sardines and make them your new go-to ingredient for delicious carnivore meals. With these 5 recipes, you’ll enjoy the full benefits of sardines in the most flavorful way possible.
