Crispy and Nutty Anchovy Stir-fry
How to make delicious and nutty stir-fried anchovies with nuts
I absolutely love stir-fried anchovies! I went to the market and found peanuts were so cheap, so I bought a bag. Then, I decided to make a delicious nutty anchovy stir-fry using the nuts I had in my fridge and some small dried anchovies. I used a rice spoon for measuring the seasonings. Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ Cooking Time: Around 30 minutes.
Main Ingredients- Dried anchovies 100g
- Almonds 100g
- Peanuts 100g
- Sunflower seeds 40g
- Canola oil 2 Tbsp
- Sesame seeds 1 Tbsp
- Vinegar 1 Tbsp
Seasoning Ingredients- Water 2 Tbsp
- Corn syrup 2 Tbsp
- Mirin (cooking wine) 1 Tbsp
- Perilla oil (or sesame oil) 2 Tbsp
- Sugar 2 Tbsp
- Mayonnaise 1 Tbsp
- Water 2 Tbsp
- Corn syrup 2 Tbsp
- Mirin (cooking wine) 1 Tbsp
- Perilla oil (or sesame oil) 2 Tbsp
- Sugar 2 Tbsp
- Mayonnaise 1 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
01. Toast the Anchovies: Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the dried anchovies and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes. This step helps to remove any fishy smell and makes them crispier.
Step 2
02. Blanch the Peanuts: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Add the peanuts and blanch them for just 10 seconds. This short blanching helps to remove any bitterness. Drain the peanuts using a sieve, rinse them quickly under cold water, and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels or let them drain in a colander.
Step 3
03. Dry-Roast Other Nuts: In a dry pan over low heat, lightly toast the almonds, sunflower seeds, and any other nuts you are using. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. This step removes moisture and enhances their crunchiness.
Step 4
04. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a small pot or pan, combine 2 tablespoons of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of corn syrup, and 1 tablespoon of mirin. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 5
05. Combine and Stir-fry: Add the toasted anchovies, blanched and dried peanuts, and dry-roasted nuts to the simmering sauce. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Continue to stir-fry over medium-low heat until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Step 6
06. Finishing Touches for Flavor and Texture: Once the sauce has mostly reduced and coated the ingredients, reduce the heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of perilla oil (or sesame oil), 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds. Stir for about 1 more minute until everything is well combined and fragrant. The mayonnaise adds a lovely creaminess and helps prevent the anchovies from sticking together, boosting the nutty flavor.
Step 7
TIP: Adding a touch of mayonnaise not only prevents the anchovies from sticking together but also doubles the nutty flavor, giving them a wonderfully creamy texture! Your delicious nutty anchovy stir-fry is ready. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful side dish!
