Raw Anchovy
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Anchovy

Engraulis encrasicolus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Raw anchovies are small, oily fish known for their strong flavor and high nutritional value. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Anchoa (Spain)Engraulis (Italy)
Scientific NameEngraulis encrasicolus
Region of OriginMediterranean Sea region

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories210 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total40.3g
Protein
29.8g(74%)
Fats
10.5g(26%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A300 IU (6%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B128 mcg (133%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0 mgVitamin K: 0 mcgFolate: 0 mcgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium50 mg (5%)
Iron2 mg (11%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium40 mcg (57%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Anchovies are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
They are also high in protein and provide essential nutrients such as calcium and selenium, supporting bone health and immune function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Raw anchovies can be enjoyed fresh in salads, as sushi, or marinated in vinegar and oil. Cooking methods include grilling or baking.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh anchovies that are firm to the touch, have a shiny appearance, and a clean ocean smell.

How to Store

Store raw anchovies in the refrigerator and consume them within 1-2 days. If freezing, wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, Antioxidant properties, Supports cardiovascular health
Main Applications
Used in Mediterranean cuisine, Enhances flavor in various dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Promotes heart health and reduces inflammation.

Astaxanthin

Powerful antioxidant that supports skin health.

How to Consume
Fresh, Canned, Marinated, Grilled
Did you know?

"Anchovies have been used in cooking since ancient times, and they were a staple in Roman cuisine."

Myths vs Realities

MythAnchovies are only used in pizza.
RealityAnchovies are versatile and can be used in various dishes, including salads, pasta, and sauces.
MythAll anchovies are high in mercury.
RealityAnchovies are low in mercury, making them a safer seafood option.
MythRaw anchovies are unsafe to eat.
RealityRaw anchovies are safe to eat if sourced properly and handled with care.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Anchovy Salad

A refreshing salad combining raw anchovies with vibrant vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw anchovies
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. Add the raw anchovies to the bowl and gently mix.
  3. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then pour over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Anchovy and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, topped with raw anchovies for a savory kick and packed with healthy fats.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast and top with raw anchovies and red pepper flakes if desired.

Spicy Anchovy Cucumber Rolls

Crisp cucumber rolls filled with raw anchovies and a spicy cream cheese mixture, perfect as a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 large cucumber
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 100g low-fat cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chopped chives
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Slice the cucumber lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sriracha, chives, and salt until smooth.
  3. 3. Spread the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber strip, top with raw anchovies, and roll them up.

Anchovy and Quinoa Bowl

A wholesome bowl of quinoa, fresh vegetables, and raw anchovies, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, bell pepper, and red onion.
  2. 2. Add raw anchovies on top of the salad.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the bowl and serve.

Anchovy Pesto Zoodles

Zucchini noodles tossed in a vibrant anchovy pesto, offering a low-carb and flavorful alternative to traditional pasta.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 50g raw anchovies
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, olive oil, nutritional yeast, and salt until smooth.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine spiralized zucchini and anchovies.
  3. 3. Toss the zoodles with the anchovy pesto until well coated and serve immediately.

Anchovy-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of raw anchovies, quinoa, and spices, baked to perfection for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 100g raw anchovies, chopped
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, chopped anchovies, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Raw Anchovy Sushi Rolls

Delicious sushi rolls filled with raw anchovies, avocado, and cucumber, offering a fresh and healthy twist on traditional sushi.

Ingredients
  • 2 sheets nori
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat and spread half of the sushi rice evenly over it.
  2. 2. Layer raw anchovies, avocado, and cucumber on top of the rice.
  3. 3. Roll tightly using the bamboo mat, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Anchovy and Chickpea Salad

A hearty salad combining protein-rich chickpeas and raw anchovies, dressed with a lemon-tahini dressing for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and raw anchovies.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Anchovy and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring raw anchovies and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 4 large eggs
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add spinach and raw anchovies, and cook until spinach wilts. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with feta cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes until set.

Anchovy and Tomato Bruschetta

A delightful bruschetta topped with raw anchovies and fresh tomatoes, served on toasted whole-grain bread for a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 4 slices whole grain bread
  • 100g raw anchovies
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread slices until golden.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top each slice of toast with the tomato mixture and raw anchovies, then serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are raw anchovies safe to eat?

Yes, raw anchovies are safe to eat if sourced from reputable suppliers and handled properly.

What are the health benefits of anchovies?

Anchovies are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, promoting heart health and overall wellness.

How should I store raw anchovies?

Store raw anchovies in the refrigerator and consume them within a couple of days for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze raw anchovies?

Yes, raw anchovies can be frozen for longer storage, but they may lose some texture and flavor.

What dishes can I make with raw anchovies?

Raw anchovies can be used in salads, sushi, or as a topping for pizzas and pasta.

Are anchovies high in mercury?

Anchovies are low in mercury compared to larger fish, making them a safer seafood choice.

How do I prepare raw anchovies?

Rinse them under cold water, remove the heads and guts, and they are ready to use in your dishes.

What is the difference between anchovies and sardines?

Anchovies are smaller and have a stronger flavor compared to sardines, which are larger and milder.