Ginisang Sardinas with Ampalaya (Sautéed Sardines with Bitter Melon)

Ingredients for Ginisang Sardinas with Ampalaya (Sautéed Sardines with Bitter Melon)

• 1 large can sardines in tomato sauce
• 1 medium ampalaya (bitter melon), cored and thinly sliced
• 1 medium red onion, sliced
• 5 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 tbsp toasted garlic (optional)
• 2 tbsp scallions, chopped (optional)
• 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tsp fish sauce (patis)
• 3 tbsp cooking oil

How to cook Ginisang Sardinas with Ampalaya (Sautéed Sardines with Bitter Melon)

1. 1.Heat oil in a cooking pot over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until garlic is lightly browned.
2. 2.Add ampalaya and sauté for 2 minutes.
3. 3.Add the sardines and their tomato sauce, stirring gently to keep the fish mostly intact.
4. 4.Add black pepper and fish sauce. Cover and cook over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, until ampalaya is tender-crisp.
5. 5.Transfer to a plate and top with optional scallions and toasted garlic.