Crispy Fried Anchovies

Anchovies might be small, but they have huge health benefits and flavour. They are a good source of omega-3, protein, various vitamins and minerals. So I hope that you embrace the idea of popping the whole fish (yes, heads, bones, fins..all is GOOD) into the mouth and savour every bit of this oily, bite-size superfood. The preparation is rather simple and straightforward-fresh anchovies are rinsed, dried and simply battered by tossing them with ground pork rind (or flour if you ain't on keto) and then in egg, and then quickly fried in tallow (or olive oil) until golden brown. They are great as a snack or an appetizer.

600 g Fresh anchovies (thawed overnight in the fridge if frozen)
4 Large eggs, beaten and seasoned
Salt and pepper
1/2-1 tsp Cayenne pepper
100 g Pork rinds, finely ground (or plain flour)
1 kg Tallow, ghee or olive oil, for frying
Chilli flakes, to serve
Dill, chopped, to serve
Lime wedges, to serve
Aioli, to serve (optional)

If you use frozen anchovies, thaw them properly and completely overnight in the fridge. Rinse anchovies in cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Beat eggs in a shallow bowl until combined. Season with salt, pepper and cayenne. Sprinkle the finely ground pork rind or flour over the drained anchovies.
Heat the tallow or olive oil in a large skillet until it reaches to 180C/350F. Dredge the coated anchovies in the egg and lower into the hot oil. Fry until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes. Cook the anchovies in batches, being careful to not overcrowd the skillet.
Remove and drain on paper towel-lined plate or cookie rack. Sprinkle with salt and chilli flakes while hot, then chopped dill and serve with lime wedges and aioli if using.

7 comments:

Judee 17/10/24 13:30: the only anchovies I've ever seen around here a tiny and come in a can. Your anchovies look much bigger. Anyway, my husband is a huge fan of anchovies and he would go gaga for this recipe.
David M. Gascoigne, 17/10/24 13:41: I have eaten whole anchovies in Mediterranean countries.
DEZMOND 17/10/24 13:43: I have never had me anchovies in my prevegetarian life, but anything fried is food of Gods.
Tom 17/10/24 13:52: ...anchovies are something that I've never had.
ellie 17/10/24 14:44: I only like them if I've had a lot to drink. But I don't drink beer anymore. These do look exceptional.
Lola Martínez 17/10/24 14:56: Las anchoas, o boquerones, las comemos enteras, con espinas y todo porque son tan pequeñas que apenas se notan y aportan muchos nutrientes.
eileeninmd 17/10/24 15:18: Hello,
Your anchovies look tasty, I have only tried them on pizza years ago.
Take care, have a great day!