Hamsi Tava - Crispy Fried Anchovies

5 from 1 vote

These Crispy Fried Anchovies, known as Hamsi Tava in Turkish, are a popular dish, along Turkey’s Black Sea coast.

Prep Time10

Cook Time15

Total Time25

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish

Diet: Halal, Low Lactose

Servings: people

Calories: 902kcal

Remove the heads and clean the insides of anchovies if they haven’t been prepped already.
Rinse them under cold water and let them drain on a colander for a few minutes.
In a shallow dish, mix the cornmeal, salt, and black pepper. Lightly coat each fish, shaking off any excess. The goal is a thin, even layer that crisps up perfectly when fried.
Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, arrange the anchovies in a circular pattern, making sure they are tightly touching each other.
Fry for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then carefully flip using a lid or another pan, and cook for another 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer the fried anchovies to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately with crusty bread, lemon wedges and fresh greens.

Use the freshest fish available – Fresh anchovies have a firm texture, bright eyes, and mild scent. Avoid any with a strong fishy smell.<
Drain well before coating – Removing excess moisture helps the cornmeal stick better and results in an even, crispy crust.
Do not overcrowd the pan – Arrange the fish close together to keep them in place, but without overlapping, to ensure even cooking and a golden finish.
Use the right oil – Sunflower oil is commonly used, but you can use any oil that is good for frying.