If you're a fan of the intense umami flavor that anchovies bring to dishes, you may have considered preserving your own anchovies in oil. This simple yet delicious method helps to amplify their savory taste and prolong their shelf life. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of preserving anchovies in oil, allowing you to enjoy their unique flavor whenever you want.
What You'll Need
- Fresh anchovies
- Cooking oil (olive oil is commonly used)
- Sea salt
- Airtight glass jars
Step 1: Cleaning and Prepping Anchovies
Start by rinsing the anchovies under cold running water to remove any excess scales and impurities. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, carefully remove the heads and tails, and carefully debone the fish. Rinse them once again to ensure no bones remain. Place the anchovies on a clean kitchen towel to absorb any excess moisture.
Step 2: Salting Anchovies
Generously sprinkle sea salt on the bottom of a glass jar. Layer the anchovies on top of the salt, ensuring they are well spread out to prevent sticking. Cover the layer of anchovies with another layer of salt. Repeat this process until all the anchovies are layered in the jar. Finish with a final layer of salt on top.
Step 3: Curing the Anchovies
Seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the anchovies cure for at least 48 hours, although they can be left to cure for up to a week for a more intense flavor. During this time, the salt will draw out excess moisture from the anchovies, helping to preserve them and enhance their taste.
Step 4: Rinsing and Packing in Oil
After the curing period, remove the jar from the refrigerator. Carefully rinse the anchovies under cold water to remove the salt. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel, being careful not to break the delicate fillets.
Ensure your glass jars are clean and sterilized. Begin packing the anchovies into the jars, layering them in a tight and compact manner. Leave a small space at the top of the jar for the oil.
Step 5: Pouring the Oil
Slowly pour your chosen cooking oil, such as olive oil, into the jar, ensuring that the anchovies are completely submerged. Leave about half an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Tap the jar gently to remove any air bubbles.
Step 6: Storing Your Preserved Anchovies
Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. Preserved anchovies can last for several months if stored properly. Remember to label your jars with the date to keep track of their freshness.
Now that you have your homemade, flavorful anchovies in oil, you can enjoy them in various dishes. From adding them to pasta sauces and salads to topping pizzas and sandwiches, these preserved anchovies will surely elevate your culinary creations!
Preserving anchovies in oil is not only a rewarding process but also allows you to have a supply of these flavorful fish on hand whenever you need them. Give it a try and enjoy the intense and unique taste that preserved anchovies bring to your favorite dishes!