Seafood, Condiment | Keto Paleo Gluten Free

Anchovy Fillet

Engraulis encrasicolus Allergens: Fish
Anchovy Fillet

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Engraulidae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Southeast Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round (canned)
  • Source Small saltwater fish

The Forktionary Angle

"The tiny titan of taste, packing an umami punch that transcends its size."

Definition

Small, oily, saltwater fish fillets, cured in salt and packed in oil, prized for their intense umami and savory flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteIntensely Salty, Umami, Savory, Briny, Pungent
TextureSoft, Melty (when cooked), Firm (when raw)
AromaMarine, Salty, Fermented
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Curing Process

Salt-cured for 4-6 months

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Excellent source (EPA/DHA)

Umami Content

High (due to glutamates)

Nutrition Facts

Per 20 g (4-5 fillets)
Calories210 kcal
Total Fat10 g
Saturated Fat2.5 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol90 mg
Protein29 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium232 mg
Iron4.8 mg
Potassium280 mg

Chef’s Secret

To mellow their intense saltiness, rinse anchovy fillets under cold water or soak briefly in milk before using. They "melt" into sauces, adding incredible depth without tasting fishy.

Substitutions

Best Match

Fish Sauce

1 tsp for 2 fillets (adjust to taste)

Excellent umami booster, provides saltiness and savory depth, but not texture.

Kalamata Olive Paste (Tapenade)

1:1 (for texture and saltiness)

Offers briny and savory notes, good for spreads, not exact flavor match.

Miso Paste

1:1 (adjust for saltiness)

Fermented soy paste, provides umami, but different flavor profile.

Capers

1:1 (for briny, salty pop)

Adds a burst of salty, briny flavor, but lacks the meaty texture and deep umami.

Buying Guide

Look for anchovies packed in olive oil, not vegetable oil. Store opened cans in the fridge covered in oil.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic olives capers tomatoes lamb pasta leafy greens bread.

Recipes Using Anchovy Fillet

Pasta Main Dish Easy Main Ingredient

Aglio E Olio Spaghetti With Garlic And Olive Oil

Experience the magic of Italy with this unbelievably quick and easy Aglio e Olio Spaghetti recipe! This stunningly delicious pasta dish, adapted from Australia's Better Homes and Gardens, is a light yet satisfying supper perfect for a weeknight meal. The simple combination of garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Serves 2 (easily doubled for 4).

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Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Canadian Eggs Dairy

Anchovy Sun Dried Tomato Bruschetta

Elevate your appetizer game with this incredibly flavorful Anchovy Sun-Dried Tomato Bruschetta! Inspired by a classic crostini recipe, this version adds a burst of umami and bright acidity. The vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and salty anchovies create a perfect balance, all atop perfectly toasted bread. Make the toasts and spread ahead of time for a truly effortless yet impressive appetizer that's ready in minutes. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Italian Presentation Egg Free Main Ingredient

Anchovy And Caper Dressing

Elevate your salads with this vibrant and flavorful anchovy and caper dressing, a Jamie Oliver inspired recipe! This zesty dressing is perfect for hearty salads, warm potato salads, or even as a marinade. The salty anchovies and briny capers create a delicious umami punch that will leave you wanting more. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor – perfect for weeknight dinners!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Time To Make Easy Dietary

Anchovy And Caper Salad Dressing

A burst of umami flavor! This incredibly easy anchovy and caper salad dressing is a game-changer. Inspired by Jamie Oliver's 'Naked Chef,' this recipe combines briny capers and savory anchovies for a dressing that's anything but ordinary. Perfect for adding a sophisticated kick to your salads, pasta dishes, or even roasted vegetables. Don't be shy – this addictive dressing is a delicious secret weapon for elevating your meals!

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Low Carb Dietary Preparation North American

Anchovy And Rosemary Lamb

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this stunning Anchovy & Rosemary Roasted Lamb recipe, directly from the April edition of Gourmet magazine! This simple yet sophisticated dish boasts incredible flavor. While the marinating time adds an hour to the overall process, the result is a tender, juicy lamb roast infused with savory anchovy and aromatic rosemary. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping meal!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta Occasion

Anchovy Linguini

Indulge in a burst of umami flavor with this irresistible Anchovy Linguini recipe! Perfect for anchovy enthusiasts, this quick and easy pasta dish features salty, savory anchovies perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and garlic. Don't let the ingredient list fool you – this is a surprisingly sophisticated and satisfying meal.

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3 Steps Or Less Course Dietary Low In Something

Anchovy Salad Dressing

Elevate your salads with this incredibly flavorful Anchovy Salad Dressing! Perfect for Niçoise salads featuring steamed green beans, ripe tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and baby greens, this vibrant dressing also adds a delicious punch to steamed broccoli. The salty anchovies blend beautifully with other ingredients for a complex and unforgettable taste. Be adventurous and try it – you won't be disappointed!

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Peppers Cauliflower Easy Dinner Party

Bagna Cauda

Experience the magic of Bagna Cauda, a heavenly warm dip from Italy! This recipe features a luscious garlic and anchovy sauce, perfect for dipping an array of fresh vegetables. Imagine the rich, savory flavors melting in your mouth – a true taste of Italian culinary tradition. Don't forget the crusty bread 'mops' to soak up every last drop of this irresistible sauce!

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Preparation Tomatoes Preparation Side Dishes

Baked Herby Tomatoes

Experience the magic of these perfectly baked herby tomatoes, inspired by a BBC cooking show featuring the renowned chef Antony Worrall Thompson! Sweet, juicy tomatoes are transformed into a burst of flavor with a savory herby filling. Don't skip the anchovies – they add an umami depth without being fishy! For best results, use similarly sized tomatoes for even cooking and stunning presentation. This recipe is perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer.

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