What You’ll Need
- 1 pound of fresh anchovies
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Preparing the Fresh Anchovies
Start by rinsing the anchovies under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Remove the heads and gut the fish, using a sharp knife. Gently filet each anchovy by cutting along the backbone and removing any remaining bones. Rinse the filets once more to remove any lingering scales or debris.
Coating the Anchovies
Pour the flour into a shallow dish and season it with salt and pepper according to your taste. Carefully coat each anchovy filet in the seasoned flour, ensuring an even coating on both sides. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated filets aside on a plate.
Frying the Anchovies
Fill a large skillet with vegetable oil, about ¼ inch deep, and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated anchovies into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried anchovies to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving and Enjoying
Now that your fried fresh anchovies are perfectly cooked, it’s time to savor their deliciousness. Serve them hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a side of your favorite dipping sauce. Fried fresh anchovies make a great appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with a salad or pasta dish.
Remember, these delectable little fish are best enjoyed when they are still warm and crispy. So gather your loved ones, grab some chilled beverages, and indulge in the delightful experience of feasting on fried fresh anchovies!
Stay tuned for more seafood inspiration and cooking tips right here on our blog!