Discover the pleasure of making homemade anchovies
Making homemade anchovies is more than just a culinary project. It’s a rewarding experience that allows you to create a unique and delicious product in your own kitchen. In addition, this homemade option can be much cheaper than buying anchovies in specialized stores. If you want to learn how to prepare delicious homemade anchovies, read on.
Ingredients and necessary utensils
To get started, you will need the following ingredients and utensils:
1. Fresh seitans (around 1 kg)
2. Coarse sea salt (approximately 1 kg)
3. Oli d’oliva verge extra
4. Glass jars with airtight lids
5. A large container
6. Weights for pressing (it can be a plate with something heavy on it)
Make sure you have all these ingredients and utensils on hand before starting the preparation process.
Step by step elaboration
Next, we explain how to make exquisite homemade anchovies following a few simple steps:
1. Preparation of the seitans
First, wash the seitans in cold water to remove any dirt or scales. Then remove the head and guts. Be sure to remove the center spines carefully, keeping the fillets as intact as possible.
2. Layers of salt and seitans
In a large bowl, place a thick layer of sea salt on the bottom. Place a layer of seiton skin side down on top. Repeat this process, alternating layers of salt and seitons, until you have used all the seitons. Finish with a generous layer of salt on top.
3. Pressed and cured
Cover the seitans with a plate that fits the size of the container and place a weight on top to press the fish. This will help the salt to penetrate and the liquids to drain. Leave the container in a cool, dark place for at least 3 months. During this time, the seiton will cure, absorbing the salt and developing its characteristic flavor.
4. Washed and packaged
After 3 months, remove the seitans from the salt container. Rinse them in cold water to remove excess salt. Then, place them in cold water for an hour to remove some salt. Drain them well and dry them with absorbent paper. Place the seitans in glass jars with airtight lids. Fill the jars with extra virgin olive oil, making sure the seitans are completely covered. This will not only preserve the fish, but also give it a delicious flavor. Close the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.
Tips for perfect homemade anchovies
Here are some additional tips for perfect homemade anchovies:
1. Quality of the fish
Use fresh, high-quality seitans for best results.
2. Salt control
If you prefer less salty anchovies, you can adjust the soaking time in cold water after curing.
3. Creativity in flavors
You can add aromatic herbs or spices to the olive oil to give your homemade anchovies a personal touch.
By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy delicious homemade anchovies that are much cheaper than store-bought. In addition, you will have the satisfaction of creating a gourmet product in your own kitchen. Take this opportunity to experiment and surprise your guests with exquisite homemade anchovies.