AppetizerSnack

Pescadito Frito

Name: Pescadito Frito
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: spanish
Ingredients: 500 g fresh anchovy cleaned, heads and guts removed; 100 g all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground; 500 ml olive oil; 1 pcs lemon cut into wedges

This classic Spanish appetizer features small fish, often anchovies or sardines, lightly battered and fried until crispy. It's a simple yet delicious dish, perfect for sharing with friends.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 25 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Allergen information: may contain fish and gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

500 gfresh anchovy, cleaned, heads and guts removed
100 gall-purpose flour
1 tspsalt
0.5 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
500 mlolive oil

for serving

1 pcslemon, cut into wedges

Equipment

paper towels · kitchen thermometer · large pan · shallow dish · slotted spoon

The method

Step by step

1
Rinse the cleaned anchovies under cold water and pat them very dry with paper towels.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Ensure the fish are completely dry to achieve a crispier fry and prevent oil splattering.
2
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
About 1 min
3
Dredge each anchovy in the seasoned flour, ensuring it is lightly and evenly coated.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Shake off any excess flour to avoid a thick, doughy coating.
4
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 175°C (350°F).
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy, or test by dropping a pinch of flour; it should sizzle immediately.
5
Carefully place the floured anchovies into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish.
6
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
About 4 min
7
Remove the fried anchovies with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
About 1 min
8
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Keep it good

Storage

Store any leftover fried fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes until crispy.