Super Simple Savory Stir-Fried Anchovies
Seasoning-Free Anchovy Stir-Fry: Ready in Minutes!
Most anchovy stir-fry recipes involve a gochujang-based sauce, nuts, and other various ingredients. Today, we’re going to make a savory, super-speedy anchovy stir-fry using only anchovies and oil to bring out their natural nutty flavor. It’s simple, but everyone who tries it loves it! That irresistible savory taste will have you reaching for more.
Ingredients- 100g anchovies (small anchovies, or larger ones with heads and guts removed)
Seasoning (Optional, for added flavor)- 6 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 6 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Add 6 tablespoons of cooking oil to a pan and heat it sufficiently over low heat. Gently stir-fry the anchovies until they become completely crispy. It’s important to ensure they are thoroughly dried out to achieve that satisfying crunch. If the anchovies are too moist, they won’t crisp up properly. Stir the pan occasionally or toss the anchovies to ensure even cooking. Once the anchovies are crispy, turn off the heat and let them finish cooking in the residual heat.
Step 2
If you’d like to add a bit more flavor, push the cooked anchovies to one side of the pan or temporarily transfer them to another dish. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of gochujang (or 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce) and lightly stir-fry over low heat, just enough to mellow the spiciness and bring out the savory notes. Sprinkle in a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for added nuttiness. Mix the anchovies thoroughly with the seasoning.
Step 3
These simply stir-fried anchovies are delicious on their own, offering a savory and deeply satisfying nutty flavor. Serve them over hot rice for a simple rice bowl, or mix them directly into your rice for a wonderfully satisfying side dish. By minimizing the seasoning, you can truly enjoy the anchovies’ natural taste. They retain their crispiness well even when stored in the refrigerator, making them an excellent staple side dish to keep on hand.
