Crispy and Nutty Stir-Fried Anchovies
Kid-Friendly Snack! Making Nut-Filled Anchovy Stir-Fry
This is a sweet and savory anchovy stir-fry made with very small anchovies combined with pumpkin seeds and various other nuts. It’s delicious as a side dish on its own, or you can add it to warm white rice to make delicious rice balls that kids will love! It’s an easy way to incorporate rich nutrition and a satisfying crunch.
Main Ingredients- Small anchovies (very small size) 150-180g
- Pumpkin seeds, a handful (approx. 2-3 Tbsp)
- Roasted peanuts, a handful (approx. 2-3 Tbsp)
- Mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.), a handful (approx. 2-3 Tbsp)
- Macadamia nuts, a handful (approx. 2-3 Tbsp)
Seasoning & Others- Cooking wine (or Mirin, Sake) 2 Tbsp
- Sunflower oil (or cooking oil) 3-4 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide (or corn syrup) 2-3 Tbsp (adjust to taste)
- Sesame oil 1 tsp
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
- Cooking wine (or Mirin, Sake) 2 Tbsp
- Sunflower oil (or cooking oil) 3-4 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide (or corn syrup) 2-3 Tbsp (adjust to taste)
- Sesame oil 1 tsp
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, place all the prepared nuts, such as pumpkin seeds, roasted peanuts, mixed nuts, and macadamia nuts, into a zip-top bag. Then, using a rolling pin, a heavy bowl, or a cup, crush the nuts into small, manageable pieces – not too fine. Be careful not to turn them into powder.
Step 2
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the cleaned small anchovies and 2 Tbsp of cooking wine. Stir-fry the anchovies gently, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes until they become dry and lose their fishy smell. Ensure they are thoroughly crisped.
Step 3
Once the anchovies are somewhat crispy, add 3-4 Tbsp of sunflower oil (or your preferred cooking oil) to the pan. Stir well to coat the anchovies with the oil. Adjust the amount of oil based on the quantity of anchovies.
Step 4
Add the crushed nuts to the anchovy mixture in the pan. It’s important to stir everything together well to prevent the nuts from clumping.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to stir-fry, mixing constantly, to ensure the anchovies and nuts become evenly golden brown and crispy without burning. Stir for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6
Now, add 2-3 Tbsp of oligosaccharide (or corn syrup) to the pan and mix thoroughly with all the ingredients. The oligosaccharide will add a glossy sheen and sweet flavor to the anchovies and nuts. Adjust the sweetness to your preference. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to allow the seasoning to absorb.
Step 7
Once everything is nicely stir-fried, turn off the heat. Drizzle in 1 tsp of sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra nutty aroma. Spread the finished anchovy stir-fry onto a wide plate and let it cool completely. Once fully cooled and hardened, put on disposable gloves and break it into bite-sized pieces, or store it directly in a container. You’ll have a delicious, nutrient-packed nutty anchovy candy-style stir-fry that’s crispy, savory, sweet, and nutty!
