Anchovies are small, oily fish, typically 2 to 40 centimeters in length, found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Black and Mediterranean Seas. Belonging to the family Engraulidae, there are over 140 species. They are often identified by their slender, silver body with a blue or green tint. Anchovies travel in schools and feed on plankton.
A traditional method of preserving anchovies involves gutting and salting them in brine, which results in a strong, savory flavor and a deep grey flesh. They are commonly packed in oil or salt. Anchovies are used in various cuisines as a flavoring agent in sauces, dressings, and as a pizza topping. They are known for their umami flavor, attributed to glutamic and inosinic acids. Brands like Crown Prince and Season offer anchovy fillets, paste, and other anchovy products. Availability is widespread in grocery stores and online retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and specialty stores. Prices vary depending on the brand, form (fillets, paste, etc.), and quantity, with small tins starting at around $4.58.
