Crispy Turkish Fried Anchovies
Crispy Turkish Fried Anchovies, or ‘Hamsi Tava,’ are a delightful seafood treat that brings the taste of the Mediterranean coast right to your table. These little fish are coated in a light flour batter and fried until golden brown, resulting in a crunchy exterior that perfectly complements their tender flesh. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these flavorful bites are sure to impress your family and friends with their savory taste and irresistible texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb fresh anchovies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Clean the anchovies by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Remove heads and guts if desired.
- Set up a breading station with one dish for seasoned flour (mix flour, salt, and pepper), another for beaten eggs, and an empty bowl for the coated fish.
- Dredge each anchovy in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg wash, ensuring even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (approximately 350°F).
- Fry the coated anchovies in batches for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and serve warm with lemon wedges or fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 anchovies (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Experiment with spices like paprika for extra flavor or use panko breadcrumbs for added crunch. Serve alongside tangy dipping sauces to elevate the dining experience.