Anchovies (or Sardines) Marinated with Lemon, Garlic and Fennel

Δημοσιέυτηκε: Mon, 07/30/2007 - 00:00 || Ενημερώθηκε: Fri, 02/14/2014 - 15:07

The Greek version of ‘ceviche’, is a traditional island way to enjoy the extra-fresh tasty and cheap fish.

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ANCHOVIES MARINATED WITH LEMON, GARLIC AND FENNEL

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds fresh anchovies or small sardines
red wine vinegar (as needed)
freshly squeezed lemon juice from 2-3 lemons (as needed)
salt
3 tsps minced garlic (or more, to taste)
1 cup wild fennel fonds, finely chopped, or 1 fennel bulb, finely grated, 2 tablespoons freshly ground fennel seeds
chopped fresh or marinated Jalapenos or peperonchini, to taste (optional)
Extra virgin olive oil (as needed)

Procedure:

Place the fish in a non-reactive bowl and sprinkle liberally with vinegar.
Let stand 2-3 minutes for anchovies, a bit longer for the sardines.
Pinch the head off, not detaching it completely, and move your finger down the belly detaching the backbone, to discard it together with the intestines.
Snap the backbone at the tail, and the fish will open as a book.
Rinse under cold water, and place each anchovy (or sardine) on thick paper towels, to drain completely.
Lay the fish filets in one layer, open side up, on a deep, non-reactive serving platter, preferably square or rectangular, add salt, splash with some lemon juice, sprinkle with garlic, the fennel, and the hot peppers, if using.
Top with another layer of sardines, open side down, add salt, splash with lemon juice, sprinkle with garlic and the fennel, and continue with the rest of the filets.
Pour olive oil over the anchovies or sardines to cover completely, and press the fish, so that the oil penetrates all layers.
Cover and refrigerate for 3-5 hours, and up to 6-7 days. The oil with solidify.
Let come to room temperature for a few minutes, before serving.