Moroccan Sardine Balls in Tomato Sauce
Fish balls made from tinned sardines, cumin and herbs, simmered in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce.
- Time45 min
- LevelMedium
- Costabout £1.56 a head
Cost is worked out from Aldi and Tesco shelf prices in October 2026. Your shop and brands will differ.
Ingredients
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Method
- 1
Mash the sardines in a bowl. Mix in the onion, half the garlic, half the herbs, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, the breadcrumbs, egg and pepper. Chill for 10 minutes.
10 min - 2
Heat the oil in a wide pan. Cook the pepper for 5 minutes, then add the remaining garlic, cumin, paprika and the chilli for 1 minute.
5 min - 3
Add the tomatoes and 100 ml water and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thick.
10 min - 4
Roll the sardine mix into 16 small balls with damp hands. Lower them into the sauce.
- 5
Cover and simmer gently for 10 minutes, turning once, until firm.
10 min - 6
Prepare the couscous following the packet. Serve the balls and sauce on top, scattered with the remaining herbs.
Double check before you cook. Recipes can contain mistakes. Any diet labels come from the ingredients as written in this recipe and are a guide, not a guarantee. Always check every ingredient and the packet label for allergens and cross contamination, and ask your doctor or dietitian what is right for you, especially with coeliac disease, diabetes or a serious allergy. This is not medical advice.