Marinated Anchovies

At Restaurante La Venus, we offer one of the most flavorful traditional recipes from Mediterranean cuisine: Marinated Anchovies in Vinegar. This dish, known for its simplicity and freshness, is perfect to enjoy as an appetizer or side dish. The fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar and salt transform into an explosion of flavor with a final touch of extra virgin olive oil and your favorite seasonings.

Ingredients for Marinated Anchovies in Vinegar (Serves 4)

• 1 kilo of fresh anchovies

• Vinegar (enough to cover the anchovies)

• Salt (to taste)

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Seasonings to taste (optional: parsley, garlic, red pepper)

Instructions for Preparing Marinated Anchovies in Vinegar

1. Clean the Anchovies

   • Remove the bones from the anchovies and carefully clean them under cold water. Let them drain in a colander to remove any excess water.

2. Marinate the Anchovies

   • Place the clean anchovies in a large bowl. Cover with a layer of vinegar and sprinkle with salt. If you have more anchovies, add a second layer and repeat the process.

   • Cover the container and place it in the fridge for 2 to 4 hours. The time will depend on the amount of vinegar and salt, but usually, 2 hours is enough.

3. Rinse and Drain

   • Once the marinating time is up, remove the anchovies from the fridge and drain the vinegar.

   • Rinse the anchovies under cold water to remove excess salt, being careful not to damage the fish.

4. Serve the Anchovies

   • Arrange the anchovies in rows on a serving plate. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and add your favorite seasonings. You can garnish the dish with fresh parsley or lettuce, and an additional splash of vinegar if desired.

Cooking Tip

• Alternative Cooking Methods: Anchovies are a type of bluefish, so it is not advisable to fry them in oil. A healthier and tastier option is to marinate them in vinegar and salt or cook them in their own oil and water. This method preserves the nutritional benefits of anchovies and offers a unique texture and flavor.

Tips for Enjoying Marinated Anchovies in Vinegar

• Pair with Fresh Vegetables: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley, lettuce, or even a few slices of tomato for a touch of freshness and color.

• Season to Taste: Experiment with seasonings like chopped garlic or red peppers to give this traditional dish a unique twist.

• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy your marinated anchovies with a crisp dry white wine from the region to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.