Sarciado – Panlasang Pinoy

This Sarciado recipe brings crispy fried fish back to life with a savory tomato sauce and soft scrambled eggs. It is a simple dish that goes perfectly with warm rice.

Sarciado is one of those comforting dishes that remind me of home. Whether made from leftover fried fish or cooked fresh, it delivers the kind of flavor that satisfies. I grew up enjoying this with hot rice and a splash of fish sauce on the side. The soft eggs mixed with tomatoes, onions, and garlic create a rich sauce that clings to the crispy fish. It is the kind of meal that proves you do not need much to make something truly delicious.

What is Sarciado

Sarciado is a traditional Filipino dish made by simmering fried fish in a savory sauce made of sautéed garlic, onions, and tomatoes. What makes this dish unique is the addition of beaten eggs, which are stirred into the sauce at the end to give it a soft and creamy texture. It is often made using day-old fried fish, giving leftovers new life with a flavorful twist.

Ingredients for Sarciado

• Whole fish – A fresh tilapia, bangus, or galunggong works well for this recipe. It serves as the crispy and hearty base
• Maggi Magic Sarap – Brings out the savory flavor in the fish and enhances the overall dish
• Onion – Adds natural sweetness and aroma when sautéed
• Tomatoes – The heart of the sauce, offering a bright and tangy flavor
• Garlic – Adds depth and fragrance when sautéed with the onions and tomatoes
• Green onions – Freshens up the dish with a mild sharpness and color
• Eggs – Give the sauce a rich, scrambled texture that coats the fish beautifully
• Cooking oil – Used to fry the fish until crispy and to sauté the aromatics
• Water – Forms the base of the sauce to bring everything together
• Ground black pepper and fish sauce – Provide balance and seasoning to the dish

How to Cook Sarciado

1. Season and fry the fish
   Rub Maggi Magic Sarap all over the cleaned whole fish. Heat oil in a pan and fry both sides of the fish until golden brown. Remove the fish and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics
   Reduce the oil in the pan to about three tablespoons. Sauté garlic until light brown. Add the chopped onion and diced tomatoes. Cook until the onion softens and the tomatoes start to break down.
3. Season and simmer
   Season with ground black pepper and a bit of fish sauce. Pour in water and let the mixture boil. Lower the heat and simmer for three minutes to develop the flavor.
4. Add eggs and green onions
   Add the chopped green onions and pour in the beaten eggs. Quickly stir to distribute the eggs evenly. Cook for about two minutes until the eggs are set but still soft.
5. Return the fish to the pan
   Gently place the fried fish back into the pan. Let it simmer in the sauce for two to three minutes to soak up the flavor.
6. Serve and enjoy
   Transfer to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy every spoonful of sauce with the fish.

Best Ways to Enjoy Sarciado

Sarciado is best enjoyed freshly cooked while the fish is still slightly crispy and the sauce is warm and rich. It pairs well with plain rice, allowing the sauce to shine. A splash of fish sauce with calamansi on the side can take it to another level. This dish is ideal for lunch or dinner, especially when you are looking for something satisfying but easy to prepare.

What Makes This Sarciado Stand Out

This version is made using Maggi Magic Sarap, which gives the fish a deep and savory flavor even before it is fried. The eggs are added at just the right moment to create a velvety, soft sauce that blends perfectly with the garlic, onion, and tomatoes. This is a simple dish, but every part is cooked with intention, resulting in a flavorful meal that goes straight to the heart.

What to Have with Sarciado

Shrimp Fried Rice – A flavorful rice dish with shrimp and Chinese sausage that pairs well with the saucy richness of Sarciado

Fried Pork Belly – Crispy pork belly that adds contrast and crunch to every bite

Vegetable Okoy – Crispy vegetable fritters that make a great side dish or crunchy contrast to the soft fish and egg sauce

Bicol Express – Spicy and creamy pork cooked in coconut milk for a bolder flavor pairing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of fish for Sarciado

Yes. Tilapia, bangus, or galunggong are all great options. Choose one that holds up well after frying.

Can I make this without fish sauce

You can use salt as a substitute. However, fish sauce adds a deeper umami flavor that brings out the richness of the sauce.

How do I store leftovers

Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and consume within two days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs.

Can I add chili for heat

Yes. If you prefer a spicier version, add sliced chili peppers when sautéing the garlic and onions.

Watch How to Cook Sarciado