Canned Anchovy Fillets

Canned anchovy fillets are small, saltwater fish that are packed in oil or salt, offering a concentrated umami flavor that enhances many dishes. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, they have long been a staple in Spanish, Italian, and French cooking. Their taste is salty, briny, and deeply savory, with a hint of oceanic tanginess. The texture is soft and delicate, yet they maintain a slight firmness when cooked. In the kitchen, anchovy fillets are versatile; they dissolve easily into sauces to add depth of flavor, melt into dressings for a rich complexity, and can be crisped up for a savory garnish. They are prized for their ability to elevate the savoriness of a dish without overpowering other ingredients.

Notes

When selecting canned anchovy fillets, look for a product packed in olive oil for superior flavor or in salt for a more traditional preservation method. Store opened cans in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks for best quality. Unopened cans can last for several years in a cool, dark pantry. Be mindful of anchovies' saltiness; a little goes a long way. They are a common allergen for those with fish sensitivities, so use caution when serving to guests with dietary restrictions.

Uses

Caesar salad dressing
Pizza topping
Pasta sauces
Stuffed olives
Garlic butter spread
Fish stock enhancer
Crispy snack garnish

Replacements

Fresh Orange Juice

Fresh orange juice is made by squeezing oranges to extract their natural, sweet, and tangy juice. It's a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants, offering a refreshing and nutritious boost to your diet.

Sambal Oelek

Sambal Oelek is a traditional Indonesian chili sauce made primarily from ground chili peppers, vinegar, salt, and sometimes shrimp paste or garlic. Its origins trace back to the Indonesian archipelago, where it has been a staple condiment for centuries. The sauce boasts a robust, pungent heat with a bright, tangy undertone from the vinegar, and a subtle complexity from any shrimp paste used. Its texture is coarse and chunky, offering a satisfying mouthfeel that is neither smooth nor overly thick. In cooking, Sambal Oelek is versatile, adding a fiery kick to dishes without overwhelming other flavors. It can be used as a direct condiment or incorporated into recipes to enhance their spiciness and depth.

Recipes to try

Roasted Garlic and Tomato Basil Soup with Croutons

Creamy, fragrant, and bursting with roasted garlic sweetness, this soup is comfort in a bowl, crowned with golden, crunchy croutons.

Smoky Sausage, Corn, and Potato Foil Packets

Imagine the smoky aroma of grilled sausage mingling with sweet corn and tender potatoes, all wrapped up in a neat foil packet.