Anchovy

Engraulis encrasicolus (European Anchovy) Seafood, Cured Fish

Anchovy Seafood, Cured Fish

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood, Cured Fish

The Forktionary Angle

"The tiny fish with immense flavor, transforming dishes with a salty, savory depth that's often unnoticed but always appreciated."

Definition

Small, saltwater forage fish, often cured in salt and oil, prized for its intense umami flavor and meaty texture in various cuisines.

Omega-3 Content Significant Source
Shelf Life (Canned/Jarred) 1 year+ (unopened)
Umami Contribution High (due to inosinate)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Anchovy are:

Salty savory umami fishy

Chef’s Secret

Melt a few anchovy fillets into hot olive oil at the start of a sauce; they dissolve almost completely, leaving only a deep, savory foundation.

Best Substitutes

Worcestershire Sauce

1 tsp per anchovy fillet for umami

Capers

for saltiness/brininess
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for anchovies packed in olive oil, not soybean or other vegetable oils. Fillets should be intact and plump.

Recipes Using Anchovy

Easy Course Potluck Equipment

Anchovy Pt

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Anchovy Pt recipe, straight from Theodore Kyriakou, acclaimed as Britain's finest Greek chef! This intensely flavorful paste, featured in his cookbook 'Real Greek Food,' is incredibly versatile. Made with salty anchovy fillets (rinsed well!), capers, and aromatic herbs, it's perfect as a spread on crusty bread or crackers. Prepare it quickly using a food processor or embrace traditional methods with a pestle and mortar. The result? A deliciously addictive paste that will keep for weeks in your refrigerator. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game!

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No Cook Occasion Eggs Dairy Presentation

Basil Tomato Mozzarella Cheese

Bursting with fresh, summery flavor! This Caprese salad recipe is incredibly easy to make, featuring juicy homegrown tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a simple yet delightful balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer.

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French Dietary Vegetables Preparation

Authentic Salade Nicoise

Discover the truly authentic Salade Niçoise, as championed by Capelina d'Or and Sian d'Aqui, the leading authorities on traditional Nice cuisine! Forget the cooked potatoes and beans – this recipe reveals the original, vibrant salad, a delightful symphony of fresh tomatoes, briny anchovies, and fragrant herbs. Learn the secrets to this classic, dating back to a simple tomato, anchovy, and onion base, and elevate your culinary skills with this timeless masterpiece. Perfect for a light lunch, vibrant appetizer, or elegant side dish.

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Vegetables Italian European Course

Artichoke And Fennel Salad

This vibrant Artichoke and Fennel Salad is the perfect antipasto! Fresh fennel's subtle licorice notes mingle beautifully with briny artichoke hearts, juicy tomatoes, and Kalamata olives, all tossed in a zesty lemon-anchovy dressing. A simple yet elegant appetizer or light lunch, ready in under 30 minutes!

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Time To Make Preparation Time To Make Main Ingredient

Amazing Cabbage You Ll Want To Eat A Whole One

Inspired by Jamie Oliver, this recipe transforms humble cabbage into a culinary masterpiece! Don't let the anchovies scare you—they melt into the butter, creating an unbelievably savory flavor that enhances the cabbage without tasting fishy. Garlic and rosemary add subtle depth, while the unique cooking method yields perfectly tender-crisp leaves. Prepare a big batch of the flavorful butter—it freezes beautifully for future cabbage cravings. Get ready for the most delicious cabbage you've ever tasted!

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Spaghetti Pasta 15 Minutes Or Less European

Angel Hair Pasta With Anchovy Sauce

This deceptively simple Angel Hair Pasta recipe features a secret ingredient: anchovies! They melt away into the sauce, leaving behind an unbelievably rich and savory flavor that will have your guests begging for more. Don't tell them the secret – let them guess! Pair with a fresh tossed salad and crusty Italian bread for a complete and unforgettable meal. Ready in under 15 minutes!

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60 Minutes Or Less Seafood Savory Italian

Anchovy Rolls

Ring in the New Year with these decadent Anchovy Rolls (Alici Rolls), a Southern Italian appetizer elevated to pure deliciousness! Traditionally simple, this recipe adds a creamy twist with crème fraîche and subtly sweet leeks. These savory pinwheels are perfect as an appetizer for four or a satisfying entree for two. Prepare to impress your guests with this unique and flavorful treat – the perfect pairing for a crisp Gewürztraminer!

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Savory Sauces Dips Sauces Preparation

Bagna Cauda Olive Oil Garlic Butter And Anchovy Sauce

Indulge in the irresistible warmth of Bagna Cauda, a classic Italian appetizer meaning 'hot bath'! This recipe, inspired by San Francisco's Stinking Rose Restaurant, creates a rich and savory sauce of olive oil, garlic, anchovies, and butter, perfect for dipping crusty sourdough, breadsticks, or your favorite roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms. Beyond appetizers, it adds a luxurious touch to grilled fish or vegetables. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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European Spreads Dietary Appetizers

Antipasto Aglio

Indulge in the irresistible Antipasto Aglio, a flavorful explosion of garlic from the Garlic Lovers Cookbook by MJ Filice! This recipe is a must-try for garlic enthusiasts. Crisp garlic slices meet a creamy anchovy paste, creating a perfect appetizer or snack. Pair with a robust red wine for an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Holiday Event New Years Course Main Ingredient

Antipasto

This award-winning antipasto recipe is a flavor explosion! Requested at every gathering, it's unbelievably delicious on crackers or as a stunning cold topping for brie. This vibrant medley of marinated vegetables, olives, and seafood is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or a unique addition to your charcuterie board.

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