Anchovies Are Sneaky - Learn Stuff

As far as I was aware, I had never eaten anchovies, or any of their relatives like sardines or herring. I was mistaken, because they are sneaky.

Anchovies are a forage fish and can be found abundantly all over the world. They are an important source of food for other fish, marine mammals, birds, and humans. It is no wonder that they are included in the cuisine of many different cultures.

They are generally a few inches long, but can grow to be over a foot in length. Big or small, these things never seemed appetizing to me, and I never ate them... to my knowledge.

Well, silly me, anchovies are in all kinds of stuff. Specifically, I had no idea they were an ingredient in Caesar salad dressing. Since I am a big fan, I have been consuming anchovies for many years.

The other thing I use that has anchovies unbeknownst to me is Worcestershire sauce. Yep, that has little smushed up fish in it too.

Of course, I have always been aware of anchovies as a pizza topping, though I have never seen anyone order a pie like that.

The strong savory flavor (or umami for pretentious people) comes from the way the fish are cured. Fresh anchovies are much more mild. Either way, I don`t see myself trying them whole anytime soon.