Stuffed Fried Sardines

Directions

1. 1
   In a small bowl, mix the raisins with the lemon juice, scallion, parsley, bread crumbs, chopped ham and ground fennel.
2. 2
   Season with salt and pepper.
3. 3
   Open a sardine and place a rounded teaspoon of the filling on one side of the fish.
4. 4
   Close the sardine, pressing the halves together firmly.
5. 5
   Repeat with the remaining sardines and filling.
6. 6
   Spread flour in a shallow bowl.
7. 7
   Place the eggs in another shallow bowl and beat the water into the eggs.
8. 8
   Dredge the sardines in the flour, then dip them into the egg mixture to thoroughly coat, letting the excess drip off.
9. 9
   Dredge the sardines again in the flour and shake off any excess.
10. 10
    In a large skillet, heat 1/4 inch of olive oil until shimmering.
11. 11
    Add half of the sardines and fry over moderately high heat until golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.
12. 12
    Drain the sardines briefly on paper towels and transfer to plates.
13. 13
    Repeat with the remaining sardines.