Trinidad Sardine Choka
If you’re in a rush but still craving a hearty, healthy meal, Trinidad Sardine Choka is here to save the day. This traditional Trinidadian dish combines flavorful canned sardines with simple, vibrant ingredients for a meal that comes together in under 15 minutes! Packed with Omega-3s, protein, and vitamins, sardine choka isn’t just quick to make – it’s great for you, too. With some easy chopping (or the help of a handy chopper), this recipe transforms a humble can of sardines into a satisfying meal with just a few ingredients.
What is Trinidad Sardine Choka?
Trinidad Sardine Choka is a classic Caribbean dish made by mixing canned sardines with fresh aromatics like onions, garlic, and hot pepper. Growing up in Trinidad, this was a staple meal – quick, flavorful, and filling. My version adds a twist with bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, and lime juice, giving it an extra layer of crunch, sweetness, and brightness that balances the rich taste of sardines. Sardines are among the healthiest foods around, full of essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and calcium, making this recipe a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition.
Choosing the Best Canned Sardines
For the best Trini Sardine Choka, look for canned sardines packed in olive oil or spring water with minimal additives.
I recommend choosing wild sardines with only salt added and no preservatives or chemicals.
Concerned about sodium in canned food?
Sardines are naturally low in sodium (about 150 mg per can), making them a good choice even if you’re watching your salt intake – but always consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
No Time for an Elaborate Dinner?
Keeping a few cans on hand is perfect for busy days or hunger emergencies!
Canned sardines never disappoint during hunger emergencies, which seem to happen frequently in my household. It always amazes me when I see my kids heartily enjoy this dish. sardines and veggies? How did this happen? In a situation like this, ask no questions, just say a prayer of gratitude and savor the mommy moment while it lasts.I was inspired to post this recipe after one of my single male friends told me he made it for dinner. He opened the can of sardines and poured the contents over the rice. I was highly perturbed by the visual. Highly. I am sure that will work when one is “hangry,” but here is a more interesting way to eat canned sardines, my friend!
How to Serve Sardine Choka:
Ingredients for Trinidad Sardine Choka:
Traditional Version(add quantity according to your preference):
Sardines – Use canned sardines in water or olive oil, drained.
Onion – Adds a punchy bite; red onion or regular white onions work well.
Garlic – Finely sliced for added depth of flavor. Note that not everyone adds garlic.
Hot Pepper – Use your preferred level of heat; options include wiri wiri, scotch bonnet, or habanero peppers.
Additional Ingredients (elevated Version-see the recipe card below for measurements):
Tomato – Finely chopped to add a bit of sweetness.
Mixed Bell Peppers – Adds color, sweetness, and crunch to the dish.
Cucumber – Adds a refreshing coolness; peel and seed if not organic.
Lime Juice – Brightens the flavors and helps cut the freshness of the sardines.
Salt and Pepper – Optional, season to taste.
Chopped Scallion – For garnish and extra flavor.
Variations:
Add diced avocado for creaminess, extra hot pepper for heat, or grated carrot for a hint of sweetness.
Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, cook the onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil until translucent before mixing them in.
Step by Step Instructions:
In a medium bowl combine tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, onion, lime juice, salt, pepper with sardines and let sit a few minutes.
Garnish with scallions. Serve.
Other recipes you will love:
Salmon and Tomatoes (using fresh salmon)
Trinidad Fry Bake and Shark(Fried Fish)
Steamed Salmon with Coconut Milk & Corn Dumplings
Trinidad Sardine Choka
Ingredients
- 2 cans sardines in water or olive oil, drained
- 1 tomato finely chopped
- 1/3 cup finely chopped mixed bell peppers about ½ bell pepper
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cucumber peeled if not organic and seeded
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste, optional
- Chopped scallion for garnish
- Variations - Diced avocado crushed garlic, hot pepper (seeded and finely chopped). If you have an aversion to raw garlic or onion or would like to soften the flavors, cook in a little olive oil until translucent but not brown.
Instructions
- Drain water or oil from sardines.
- In a medium bowl add tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, onion, lime juice, salt, pepper. Mash together with a fork and let sit a few minutes.
- Garnish with scallions. Serve.
Video
Nutrition
With love and easy dishes,
Ria
Looks delish.I admit I am not a lover of sardines but those pics of yours look fantastic and I would love to have this for breakfast…provided someone is making it for me.lol.