So much more than a pizza-topping, the resilient anchovy is actually a little star. What’s more, there’s many quick and easy anchovy recipes to enjoy.
Grilled, baked, pickled, salted, stuffed and lightly-fried, battered and deep-fried, barbequed – the anchovy really is the ideal fish for someone starting on their seafood journey. The only problem is getting your hands on some fresh anchovies before they’re all packed off to be processed and used for such things as Worcestershire Sauce, tapenade, and pizza topping.
Anchovy recipes – keep it simple
If you’re one of the many who think that anchovies taste salty then, frankly put, you’re one of the many that is wrong. In fact, when fresh, anchovies taste not too dissimilar to sardine. They are easy to prepare, and great simply barbequed, or baked with a breadcrumb and parmesan topping. One such recipe can be found in Keith Floyd’s, Floyd on Fish.
Another favourite of the many anchovy recipes, is grilled fresh anchovies with capers and olives, from Mitch Tonks, fish – the complete fish and seafood companion.
Preserve your own anchovies
Of course, you’ll also find salted anchovies stuffed into tins and jars on the shelves of your favourite supermarket. Preserving fish is another passion that’s developed the more I’ve discovered seafood. I find preserving just as enjoyable as cooking fish. Plus, preserving allows you to still enjoy your favourite fish even when it’s not in season.
Talking of seasonality, anchovies are at the very best during the winter months. Avoid buying North Sea and English Channel anchovies during the spawning season (April-September).
Preparing your own anchovies
Preparing your fish ready for some great anchovy recipes is easy. There are plenty of how-to videos on YouTube. Alternatively, befriend your fishmonger and ask them to prepare your anchovies for you.
Buy them!
When it comes to anchovies, the bottom line is if you see them on your fishmonger’s slab, snap them up.
Sustainability
Read more on the latest Marine Conservation Society Good Fish Guide ratings.