Learn to prepare stuffed fried anchovies with a unique Sicilian twist.

Alici fritte ripiene

Stuffed Fried Anchovies are a gourmet reinterpretation of a classic Mediterranean dish, offering a unique and eye-catching presentation. This Italian recipe combines the crispiness of frying with a soft, fragrant filling, rich in traditional Sicilian flavors. Created by Chef Cesare Battisti, this dish draws inspiration from Marisa Passera’s favorite meal, featured in the vodcast “Discorsi in osteria.”

The uniqueness of these stuffed fried anchovies lies in their preparation: three layers of fresh anchovies are interspersed with two layers of filling made from bread, Parmigiano Reggiano, and aromatic herbs like parsley, basil, mint, and fennel. Adding to the intriguing filling are raisins and pine nuts, which provide a pleasant sweetness, while orange zest and juice offer freshness and a delicate citrus aroma.

Completing these stuffed fried anchovies is a bright green fennel sauce, adding a fresh and herbaceous contrast. The result is a surprising fish main course that elevates simple ingredients through creative preparation and refined presentation. Learn how to make stuffed fried anchovies with fennel sauce and bring a recipe rich in contrasts to your table, sure to impress at first taste!

Try these variations:

• Stuffed Anchovies
• Fried Anchovies
• Stuffed Anchovies in an Air Fryer
• Breaded Anchovies

Ingredients

• 500g fresh anchovies
• 150g breadcrumbs
• 50g Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
• 30g raisins
• 20g pine nuts
• 1 orange (zest and juice)
• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 bunch basil, chopped
• 1 bunch mint, chopped
• 1 bunch fennel, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Clean and fillet the anchovies.
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmigiano Reggiano, raisins, pine nuts, orange zest, orange juice, and chopped herbs. Season with salt.
3. Layer the anchovies with the filling: place a layer of anchovies, add filling, and repeat, finishing with anchovies.
4. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the stuffed anchovies until golden brown.
5. Prepare the fennel sauce by blending fennel with olive oil and salt until smooth.
6. Serve the stuffed fried anchovies with fennel sauce on the side.

Total Time: 45 min

Cuisine: Italian