Dried sardines (commonly referred to as niboshi or tatami iwashi) are tiny, whole oily fish that stand as a gold standard for nutrient-dense, sustainable seafood. Exceptionally packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and calcium, these robustly flavorful fish are heavily relied upon to yield deep, full-bodied dashi stocks or are seasoned and pan-toasted as a crunchy, calcium-rich snack.