All the crispiness of the sea, perfectly golden and with very little oil: these anchovies are irresistibly fragrant on the outside and soft on the inside. The breading trick ensures a golden brown finish without leaving any mess or odors in the house. Serve them piping hot to win everyone over from the first bite!
Want to serve a delicious and light seafood main course? Air-fried anchovies are the perfect way to enjoy all the flavor of fried food without the guilt and odors.
- Fresh anchovies 500 gr
- 2 medium eggs
- Breadcrumbs 100 g
- Flour 00 50 gr
- Organic lemon 1
- Extra virgin olive oil (EVO)
- Fine salt
- Black pepper
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Gently remove the heads of the anchovies, discarding the innards as well. Open each fish like a book, following the central spine, and carefully remove it, leaving the tail intact. Rinse them quickly under cold running water. A crucial step: pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any moisture and ensure a perfect golden brown color. In a large bowl, peel the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
- Beat the eggs with a fork or hand whisk until smooth. Take one anchovy at a time and dredge it in the flour, shaking it off well to remove any excess. Dip it in the beaten egg, making sure to coat it evenly. Finally, dredge it in the breadcrumbs: press lightly with your fingers to ensure the breading adheres perfectly to both sides.
- Place the breaded anchovies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overlapping them to ensure even browning. Drizzle with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for about 12 minutes, turning gently halfway through cooking if necessary. Serve immediately, piping hot and crispy, garnished with a pinch of salt and a few fresh lemon wedges!
The secret to a super-crispy breading lies in the initial preparation: after opening the anchovies like a book, leaving the tails on, remember to dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Residual moisture on the flesh is the flour's enemy and risks giving you a soggy crust.
This recipe is a fantastic dinner saver and fits perfectly among the best summer fish main courses, ideal for dinner parties. If you love the convenience of your air fryer, you absolutely must try other air fryer fish dishes: the results will amaze you!
To simulate traditional frying without over-greasing, I recommend using olive oil spray. A light mist on the breaded anchovies ensures even, inviting browning, while keeping the inside tender.
Want to please the little ones too? Serve them with some crispy homemade fish fingers. If you're looking for a traditional and tasty alternative without the breading, classic baked anchovies are a timeless classic.
Doses & Ingredients
- Very low difficulty
- Low cost
- Food availability very easy
- Extra virgin olive oil (EVO) to taste
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley to taste
- Paper Towels / Bowls / Air Fryer / Kitchen Tongs / Oil Sprayer.
