Assorted Anchovies

Last night we devoured a whole packet of what are the most delicious anchovies I have discovered to date. These hot or cold smoked beauties come from Fickle Fish http://www.theficklefish.co.uk/ not widely available yet but well worth seeking out.

They got me thinking about the vast range of culinary opportunities for the 144 varieties of anchovies, those small fish which can be found in most of the worlds oceans. 

In Spain we have enjoyed them as tapas whole, filleted, lightly brined and served in mellow olive oil.

One of my favourite ever summer receipes is Delia's ceasar salad from her Summer Collection (published in 1993). Just 50 grams of salty anchovies deliver that unique ceasar flavour. http://www.deliaonline.com/recipes/type-of-dish/salad-days/mixed-leaf-caesar-salad.html  Paired with an adaptation of her parmesan chicken this salad was a feature of one of my early food blogs and you can find the recipes here http://annsfooddiary.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/taste-of-summer.html

Another classic from the great food writer and chef Simon Hopkinson matches lamb with rosemary, garlic and the ever versatile anchovy http://www.simonhopkinson.tv/recipe/10/roast-lamb.aspx

In the garden my rosemary is luscious and green and last summers garlic has stored well. Anchovies are also ready and waiting to be added to a tasty looking piece of lamb.