Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsHayatoSimmered Japanese Sardine Recipe

Simmered Japanese Sardine Recipe

Inspired by Hayato
Time40m
Serves4

Make Simmered Japanese Sardine Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Hayato Menu - Simmered Japanese Sardine (Nimono) - Ingredients

Method

Hayato Menu - Simmered Japanese Sardine (Nimono) - Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the fish

    Rinse the sardines and pat dry with paper towels. Make shallow diagonal cuts on both sides of each fish to help the flavors penetrate.

  2. 2

    Make the simmering sauce

    In a wide skillet or shallow pot, combine dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

  3. 3

    Simmer the sardines

    Gently lay the sardines in a single layer in the simmering liquid. Spoon some of the liquid over the fish. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, turning once to ensure even cooking, until the fish are opaque and flavorful.

  4. 4

    Finish and serve

    Reduce the sauce slightly to glaze the sardines. Remove from heat, let rest for 2 minutes, and serve with steamed rice. Spoon excess sauce over the sardines and garnish if desired with sliced green onion or sesame seeds.

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