Oven-baked anchovies

Baked Anchovies - A Simple and Savory Delicacy

If you're looking for a quick and delicious recipe, baked anchovies are the perfect choice. These small fish, packed with flavor, are not only an excellent source of protein but also a burst of Mediterranean aromas. Additionally, their preparation is extremely simple, and the result is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g anchovies (preferably larger for better texture)
- 1 lemon (fresh, to add a note of acidity)
- 100 g tomato paste (for a rich and consistent flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 glass of white wine (a dry wine is ideal to complement the flavor)
- Olive oil (for added flavor)
- 2 onions (preferably white or red, for their sweetness)

A Short Story

Anchovies have been a staple ingredient in numerous culinary cultures throughout history. These small fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, making them a healthy ingredient that should not be missing from our diet. In many regions, anchovies are simply baked to highlight their natural flavor.

Step by Step for Baked Anchovies

1. Preparing the anchovies: Start by washing the anchovies well under cold running water. Make sure to remove all impurities. If they are not cleaned, remove the head and intestines, then rinse them again. It is important to use fresh anchovies, as they will add wonderful flavor to the dish.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Slice the onion into thin rings. Choose white onion for a sweeter taste, or red onion for a stronger flavor.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, dissolve the tomato paste in the white wine with a pinch of salt. Mix well until the composition is homogeneous. This sauce will give a rich flavor to the anchovies and help keep them juicy during baking.

4. Assembling the dish: Grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the anchovies from sticking. Arrange the anchovies in the dish, covering them with a generous layer of chopped onion. Pour the wine and tomato paste sauce over the anchovies, ensuring they are well covered.

5. Adding the lemon: Slice the lemon into thin rounds and place them on top of the anchovies, so that its aroma penetrates the dish during baking.

6. Baking the anchovies: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the anchovies bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the juice reduces but not completely. It is important that the anchovies remain juicy and full of flavor.

Useful Tip

To achieve an even more intense flavor, you can add some herbs such as oregano or basil to the sauce. These will provide an extra freshness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Baked anchovies pair perfectly with a side of boiled potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad. Additionally, a glass of chilled white wine will complement the meal perfectly.

Nutritional Information

Anchovies are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. A serving of 100 g of anchovies contains approximately 175 calories, making it a healthy option for a light meal or dinner.

Possible Variations

If you want to try a different version, you can add black olives or capers to the dish to enhance the flavor. You can also experiment with other types of fish if you want a similar recipe but with a different taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen anchovies? Yes, frozen anchovies can be used, but make sure to let them thaw completely and rinse them well before preparation.

2. How can I store leftover anchovies? Cooked anchovies can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or serve them cold in salads.

3. What other side dishes go well with baked anchovies? Besides boiled potatoes, baked anchovies also pair well with rice or quinoa, which can absorb the delicious juice from the dish.

Make sure to try this simple and tasty baked anchovies recipe. Once you get familiar with making it, you'll want to include it in your weekly menu. Enjoy your meal!