Crispy, golden-brown anchovy cakes are a surprisingly versatile and delicious treat, perfect as a starter, snack, or even a light meal. Forget anything you think you know about strong fishy flavours; these cakes are packed with savoury goodness, balanced perfectly with a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. The secret lies in a simple yet effective batter and a quick, high-heat frying technique that ensures each bite is a delightful explosion of texture and taste. They're surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a handful of readily available ingredients.
This irresistible recipe transforms humble anchovies into a culinary delight that will impress your family and friends. From preparing the anchovy mixture to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust, we'll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring perfectly fried anchovy cakes every time. Ready to dive in and discover the simple joy of making these addictive treats? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- frying pan
- bowl
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Anchovies and Batter
- Rinse cleaned anchovies with diluted salt water and a little white wine to remove fishy smell.
- Mix 100g all-purpose flour, 50g beer, 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon seasoning powder, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper in a bowl.
- Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
Step 2. Coat and Fry the Anchovy Cake
- Coat the drained anchovies with the prepared batter.
- Heat enough oil in a frying pan.
- Arrange the battered anchovies in a circle in the pan, filling the pan.
- Pour the remaining batter into the pan, filling gaps to form a seamless cake.
Step 3. Cook the Anchovy Cake
- Fry over low heat for 7-8 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 4. Crisp Up (Optional)
- Add more oil if needed for crispier cakes.
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Tips
- You can also fry individual anchovies by dipping each in batter before frying.
- Serve with soy sauce or fish sauce and rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned anchovies instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned anchovies work perfectly well. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly before using.
2. What if my anchovy cakes are burning too quickly?
Lower the heat slightly and don't overcrowd the pan. Fry in smaller batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
3. How can I make these anchovy cakes ahead of time?
You can prepare the anchovy mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Fry them just before serving for the best crispiness.
So there you have it – a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe for crispy fried anchovy cakes that’s sure to become a family favourite. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a delicious and memorable snack or starter. Enjoy the crunch!