A homemade delight
Making homemade anchovies can be a rewarding and inexpensive culinary project. Instead of buying them in specialized stores, you can prepare your own anchovies at home. Next, we explain how to make exquisite homemade anchovies following a few simple steps.
Ingredients and utensils
To prepare homemade anchovies, you will need the following ingredients and utensils:
– Fresh anchovies (about 1 kg)
– Coarse sea salt (approximately 1 kg)
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Glass jars with airtight lids
– A large container
– Weights to press (it can be a plate with some weight on top)
Step by step preparation
To make delicious homemade anchovies, follow these steps:
Step 1: Preparation of the anchovies
Wash the anchovies under cold water to remove any dirt or scales. Remove the head and guts, and be sure to carefully remove the central bones, keeping the fillets as intact as possible.
Step 2: Layers of salt and anchovies
In a large bowl, place a layer of coarse sea salt on the bottom. Then, place a layer of anchovies skin side down. Repeat this process, alternating layers of salt and anchovies, until you have used all the anchovies. Finish with a generous layer of salt on top.
Step 3: Pressing and curing
Cover the anchovies with a plate that fits the size of the container and place a weight on top to press down on the fish. Leave the container in a cool, dark place for at least 3 months. During this time, the anchovies will cure, absorbing the salt and developing their characteristic flavour.
Step 4: Rinse and dry
After 3 months, remove the anchovies from the salt container. Rinse them with cold water to remove excess salt. Then, place them in cold water for an hour to desalinize them a bit. Drain them well and dry them with absorbent paper.
Step 5: Storage
Place the anchovies in glass jars with airtight lids. Fill the jars with extra virgin olive oil, making sure the anchovies are completely covered. Close the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.
Additional Tips
– Use fresh, high-quality anchovies for the best results.
– If you prefer less salty anchovies, you can adjust the soaking time in cold water after curing.
– You can add aromatic herbs or spices to the olive oil to give a personal touch to your homemade anchovies.
By following these steps, you will be able to enjoy delicious and affordable homemade anchovies, and you will also enjoy the artisanal process of creating a gourmet product in your own kitchen.