Skip to content
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANCHOVY AND BOQUERÓN
We're talking about a small fish so delicious that it can be prepared in a variety of ways and is present on our tables year-round. Want to know all the differences between anchovies and whitebait? We'll explain them to you!
The anchovy ( Engraulis encrasicolus) is a prized oily fish that reaches 15 to 20 cm in length as an adult and has a cylindrical body. Its natural habitat is relatively shallow water, although it can be found at depths of up to 100 meters in the coastal waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans . Its color can range from blue to gray.
It has great nutritional benefits and is a great source of Omega 3 as well as a high content of proteins, vitamins (A, D, E and K) and has a low caloric intake, which makes it especially good for low-fat diets, thus reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases.
Differences between anchovy and whitebait
Anchovies and whitebait are the same fish; the difference lies in their preparation method. In northern Spain, they are called anchovies or bocartes, while in southern Spain they are called boquerones.
Cantabrian anchovies are prepared by salting. This involves gutting, beheading, and cleaning the fish, then adding salt. They are left to marinate at room temperature for a period of time, after which they are washed to remove any remaining salt and packed in oil (usually olive oil).
The preparation of anchovies, or boquerones , begins with cleaning, beheading, and gutting, just like other anchovies. Instead of adding salt for marinating, they are soaked in various types of vinegar and water until the skin discolors, taking on the characteristic whitish color of anchovies. As with other anchovies, olive oil is added at the end of the process to extend their shelf life. Garlic and parsley are then added, giving them that distinctive Mediterranean flavor.
How to eat frozen anchovies?
To enjoy this delicious fish, you have several options to suit all your needs. If you're watching your figure and want to grill or pickle them, you can buy frozen raw anchovies ready to cook. Simply remove them from the packaging and leave them covered in the refrigerator overnight. This will preserve all the product's flavor and texture.
If you prefer to eat some delicious fried anchovies, you can find our floured anchovies, which are cooked without defrosting, leaving them extra crispy. Either way, they'll be delicious and you'll delight everyone with this typical Mediterranean dish. Enjoy!
