Lidia's Italy

Many Americans mistakenly dismiss anchovies due to the unfortunate rap they have as an intensely flavored pizza topping. Those same naysayers are likely (and unknowingly) enjoying Worchester sauce, remoulade or California’s famous Green Goddess dressing, all of which are delicious and classic recipes that contain anchovies. Anchovies are usually the “secret ingredient” that you just can't put your finger on. The two most common ways to buy anchovies are salted and canned in oil. Canned anchovies, both whole and fillets, are readily available in 2-ounce cans in most markets. Salted anchovies can be found in many Italian and specialty markets, usually in larger tins. The canned variety are fantastically delicious and impart the most deeply earthy, briny flavor to any recipe—particularly fish, beef, chicken, lamb dishes; salad dressings and sauces really come alive with even the smallest amount of anchovies. To perk up any sauce, use a tiny bit (about 1/8) of an anchovy (which will dissolve in the sauce). This tiny bit of anchovy will give a flavor boost with no trace of the original source. Fresh and canned or salted anchovies are not interchangeable in recipes, so be sure you have the right ingredient before beginning.