Alici Ammollicate (Stuffed Anchovies)
Category: Appetizer
Servings: 4
Alici Ammollicate is a traditional Italian appetizer that combines the bold flavor of anchovies with the delicate crunch of seasoned breadcrumbs. The anchovies are stuffed with a delicious mix of garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection for a crispy yet tender bite. Perfect for a summer meal or as an appetizer to impress guests, these stuffed anchovies bring an authentic touch of Italian cuisine to your table.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Anchovies (Alici) | 250g |
| Breadcrumbs (Pangrattato) | 50g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 20g |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 bunch |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 |
| Salt (Fino) | 1 tsp |
| Butter | As needed |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Anchovies
Begin by cleaning the fresh anchovies. Cut off the heads, open them like a book, and carefully remove the central bone. Rinse the fillets thoroughly under cold running water, making sure to eliminate any residual scales. Once cleaned, gently pat the anchovies dry with a paper towel. -
Make the Breadcrumb Mixture
Peel the garlic cloves and place them in a food processor. Add the fresh parsley, which should be washed and dried beforehand. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley and garlic with the breadcrumbs, a pinch of salt, and the extra virgin olive oil. Mix everything together until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened and fragrant. -
Assemble the Alici Ammollicate
Butter a baking dish large enough to accommodate all the anchovy fillets in a single layer. Carefully stuff each anchovy fillet with a teaspoon of the breadcrumb mixture, making sure the stuffing is evenly distributed. Place the stuffed fillets in the prepared dish. -
Bake the Anchovies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) in static mode. Place the baking dish on the middle rack and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy, and the anchovies are fully cooked. -
Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. These Alici Ammollicate are best enjoyed warm, as an appetizer to kick off a memorable meal.
Tips:
- If you prefer, you can drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the anchovies before baking to enhance the flavor and crispiness.
- These stuffed anchovies can be served with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread to complete your meal.
This dish is an ideal example of Italian culinary simplicity, where fresh ingredients shine. Enjoy these delightful stuffed anchovies, a flavorful treat that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking!
