Directions

For the Grits

1. Prepare grits according to package instructions using water and milk

2. Season with salt to taste

3. Cover and remove from heat

For the Crispy Sardines

1. Preheat oven to 400°F

2. Line baking tray with foil

3. Drain sardines (reserve olive oil for other uses)

4. Place sardines on prepared tray

5. Season top side generously with 2 Tsp Cajun seasoning

6. Sprinkle with dry grits or cornmeal

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes to heat through and crisp the cornmeal

For the Cajun Gravy

1. While sardines bake, melt butter in small skillet over medium heat

2. Add garlic, peppers, scallion whites, and 2 Tsp Cajun seasoning

3. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender and fragrant

4. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, letting it darken

5. Sprinkle flour into pan

6. Whisk and cook for another 2 minutes

7. Add stock and lemon juice

8. Stir to lift any bits stuck to the pan

9. Bring sauce to full simmer and let thicken

10. Remove from heat

11. Add milk, stirring to combine

To Assemble

1. Scoop grits into shallow bowls, leaving a well in the center

2. Ladle Cajun gravy over the grits

3. Top with 3-4 crispy sardines

4. Add another spoonful of gravy

5. Garnish with scallion greens

6. Serve with lemon wedge and hot sauce if desired