Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your taste buds with this irresistible Asian snack that's both crunchy and bursting with umami! Imagine a dish that combines the salty punch of crispy dried anchovies, the nutty richness of roasted peanuts, and a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. This quick and easy recipe is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for more, making it a perfect appetizer, bar snack, or unexpected party treat that will wow your guests.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 100g dried anchovies
- 100g roasted peanuts
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 100g dried anchovies, 100g roasted peanuts, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and chili flakes to taste.
- Rinse the dried anchovies under cold water to remove any excess salt and impurities. Drain well and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and allow it to heat up.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the rinsed dried anchovies to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Next, add the roasted peanuts to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the anchovies. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the peanuts to warm up and absorb the flavors.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved. Pour this mixture over the anchovies and peanuts in the skillet.
- Stir well to ensure that the anchovies and peanuts are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finally, sprinkle chili flakes over the stir-fried mixture to taste, adjusting the heat level according to your preference. Stir to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the stir-fried dried anchovies and peanuts to a serving dish. Serve warm as a snack or as a side dish with rice.
Tips
- Rinsing is Key: Always rinse your dried anchovies thoroughly to remove excess salt and prevent an overly briny taste.
- Watch Your Heat: Keep the skillet at medium heat to prevent burning the garlic and anchovies. Constant stirring ensures even cooking and crispy texture.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust chili flakes according to your heat tolerance. Start with a little and add more if desired.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and high-quality roasted peanuts for the best flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately while hot and crispy. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as a standalone snack with a cold beer.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container and consume within 1-2 days to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg