Japanese Soy-Glazed Grilled Sardines

Introduction

Japanese Soy-Glazed Grilled Sardines are packed with umami flavors and crisped to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Marinated in a sweet-savory soy glaze, these sardines get a perfect charred finish for a restaurant-quality dish. The Arteflame grill’s high heat ensures a crispy golden crust while locking in all the juices for a delicious bite every time.

Ingredients

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp sake
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

The Sear Makes the Steak, And Arteflame Makes the Sear

Why settle for low-temperature searing when you can achieve steakhouse-quality results with an Arteflame? Gas grills take longer, drying out your steak, while the Arteflame sears at 1000°F in just one minute, locking in juices for perfection.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light them.
3. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sake, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Stir well to dissolve the honey and evenly combine ingredients.

Step 3: Marinate the Sardines

1. Place sardines in a shallow dish and coat them with the marinade.
2. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Grill the Sardines

1. Spread butter onto the Arteflame’s flat cooktop to prevent sticking.
2. Place sardines onto the hot griddle cooktop, positioning them near the hotter center for an initial sear.
3. Grill for about 2 minutes per side, achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust.
4. Move the sardines slightly toward the outer edge to finish cooking without burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Arrange grilled sardines on a plate.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and lemon wedges.
3. Enjoy immediately while hot.

Tips

• Use fresh sardines for the best flavor and texture.
• Grilling at high heat locks in moisture while creating a crispy exterior.
• Remove sardines from the grill just before they are fully cooked, as they will continue cooking off the heat.
• Cooking near the hot center first ensures a great sear before moving to a lower heat area.

Variations

• Spicy Miso Sardines: Add 1 tsp of miso paste and ½ tsp of chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Teriyaki Glazed Sardines: Replace honey with brown sugar and add a pinch of black pepper for a richer sweetness.
• Garlic Butter Sardines: Use minced garlic and melted butter instead of the soy-based marinade for a buttery flavor.
• Citrus Soy Sardines: Add 1 tbsp yuzu juice or lemon juice to the marinade for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Herb-Infused Sardines: Sprinkle the sardines with chopped cilantro and a dash of sesame oil before grilling.

Best Pairings

• Steamed white rice
• Grilled miso-glazed eggplant
• Japanese pickled vegetables
• Miso soup
• Sake or a crisp white wine

Conclusion

Japanese Soy-Glazed Grilled Sardines are a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for seafood lovers. The Arteflame grill ensures the perfect sear, locking in juices for an incredible bite. Enjoy these sardines with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal.