Food & Cooking Recipes Appetizers Pan-Fried Anchovies Be the first to rate & review! By Martha Stewart Test Kitchen Martha Stewart Test Kitchen The recipes developed by our test kitchen team have undergone a rigorous process of development and testing, ensuring that every element is optimal, from ingredient amounts to method and cooking time. This process includes triple-testing recipes to ensure they meet our high standards. The many stellar cooks and food editors who have been part of our team include Sarah Carey, Lucinda Scala Quinn, Jennifer Aaronson, Shira Bocar, Anna Kovel, Greg Lofts, Riley Wofford, Lauren Tyrell, and Lindsay Leopold. Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 10, 2020 Print Rate It Share Share Tweet Pin Email Prep Time: 25 mins Total Time: 25 mins Servings: 4 Fresh anchovies and sardines are widely available throughout southern Europe and make a quick, inexpensive appetizer or lunch. In the United States, they can be bought filleted or simply cleaned and left whole. Ingredients 32 fresh anchovies or 16 sardines (about 1 ¼ pounds), cleaned 1 cup toasted unseasoned dry breadcrumbs Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper Extra-virgin olive oil, for frying Fresh lemon wedges, for serving Directions Rinse fish and shake lightly to dry slightly, leaving some water on to help breadcrumbs adhere. Spread breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl or pie dish; season with salt and pepper. In a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet, heat 1/4 inch oil over high until shimmering. (Test by dropping a breadcrumb; if it sizzles and floats instantly, the oil is hot enough for frying.) Working in batches so as not to crowd, dredge fish in breadcrumbs and lay flat in skillet. Reduce heat to medium and cook until fish are golden brown on bottom, about 3 minutes. Flip fish, one at a time, and continue to cook until tender when pressed in center and flesh is opaque, 2 to 3 minutes more. Using a slotted spatula, transfer fish to prepared baking sheet; sprinkle with salt. Between batches, increase heat and strain out browned crumbs, or wipe out pan as needed. Rate it Print