Can I substitute whole anchovies for anchovy paste?

Can I substitute whole anchovies for anchovy paste? - Photo of a Can of Anchovies Near Bread

I have several recipes that call for anchovy paste; I think they're typically vinaigrettes. They don't carry the paste at Trader Joe's so I bought a small can of whole anchovies.

Can I substitute the whole (presumably chopped/smashed/pureed) for paste? I assume I would use the same volume? And for others, can paste be substituted for whole in recipes where the whole anchovy is going to be pureed anyhow?

Oh, and since I'll have leftover anchovies from the can, I assume they will freeze fine for further anchovy paste substitutions?

substitutionsstorage-methodfreezing


Best Answer

You can easily make your own anchovy paste from canned anchovies. This America's Test Kitchen video shows how:

  1. Chop the anchovies fairly finely
  2. Mash with a fork until smooth

Some sites recommend adding a little oil for a smoother texture.

I have never tried it, but I don't see any reason this would not freeze exceptionally well, as neither whole anchovies nor the paste are used for their texture.



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Quick Answer about "Can I substitute whole anchovies for anchovy paste?"

In terms of flavor, some preparations are better for swapping between anchovy paste and anchovies. In general, you can always substitute anchovy fillets for anchovy paste, but not necessarily vice versa.

Can you substitute anchovies for anchovy paste?

For reference, 1 anchovy fillet = 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste.

How do you use whole anchovies?

Devour Them Whole To savor whole fillets without overdosing on salt, try laying some anchovies out on an open-face sandwich with sliced tomatoes, basil, and a garlicky aioli, or throw them together with Manchego and roasted red pepper for classic Spanish pintxos.

How do I substitute anchovies for paste?

  • Soy Sauce. This is one of the easiest ways to get the salty, umami taste of anchovy paste. ...
  • Kalamata Olives/Tapenade. Olives are another food that divides opinion (although not in quite the same way as anchovy paste). ...
  • Seaweed. ...
  • Miso Paste. ...
  • Capers. ...
  • Umeboshi Paste. ...
  • Frequently Asked Questions.



    • Anchovy Paste | Make your own Anchovy paste



    More answers regarding can I substitute whole anchovies for anchovy paste?

    Answer 2

    yes, paste is just ground anchovy... better to make your own because the paste is made from the anchovies that were not suited to be sold whole.

    Answer 3

    The paste is just ground up anchovies. I use a mortar and pestle to make it.

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