In the year 2024, I never envisaged that I would be declaring my undying love for sardines as my ultimate lunch choice. It seems that I have developed quite an obsession with these little fish. And I am not alone in this phenomenon; it appears that everyone is joining the sardine revolution.

But why have sardines suddenly captured everyone’s attention, you may ask? Well, it turns out that these small creatures are chock-full of protein and omega-3. Not to mention, they are incredibly easy to prepare and are surprisingly satiating. But how did sardines become the hottest trend in town?

According to the esteemed New York Times, the catalyst for sardines’ surge in popularity is none other than TikTok. The platform is awash with videos showcasing people incorporating tinned fish into their culinary escapades, be it for date nights or product reviews. It has blossomed into a full-fledged movement.

For me, it was the persuasive powers of a YouTuber named Mathew Carlson that truly won me over to sardines. His channel is bursting with innovative ways to savor these little delicacies, and I was instantly captivated. It seems that even restaurants are catching on to this craze. Some eateries are now offering mackerel and sardine options on their menus, with anchovies experiencing a resurgence as a popular ingredient in dishes such as Caesar salad.

If you are in search of top-notch tinned sardines, look no further than brands like Wild Planet and King Oscar, available at reputable stores like Meijer or Whole Foods. These brands provide sardines packed in olive oil and lightly smoked. And the cherry on top? They come with an affordable price tag of only around £3 per tin.

One of the wonders of sardines is that you can indulge in them straight out of the tin. However, if you are feeling a tad more audacious, why not elevate your culinary experience by adding them to some avocado toast, and garnishing it with a splash of hot sauce, salt, and pepper for a swift and delectable meal.

The ascent of sardines as a sought-after delicacy is just another illustration of how gastronomic trends can soar to unprecedented heights. They are a convenient choice for a healthy and gratifying meal. Who would have guessed that these diminutive fish could cause such a commotion? Yet here we are, in the year 2024, embracing the sardine frenzy. And truth be told, I am all in favor of it.