A common fish found in marine and freshwater environments throughout the world, anchovies are a top food source for a variety of predatory fish. Prized by humans for their briny taste, these little morsels can punch up a variety of dishes.
Anchovies became a seafood staple several thousand years ago. In Ancient Rome, they played a key role in a condiment worth as much as the top perfumes of the time.
Most people know anchovies from their brief surge in popularity as a pizza topping during the 1990s. They fell out of favor soon after, but they’re now seeing a comeback among top chefs.
While there are over 140 species of anchovy, the Engraulis encrasicolus is most commonly used in cooking. Known as the European anchovy, it is sometimes enjoyed fresh, but it’s more commonly canned, smoked, dried, or salted.
Health Benefits
Anchovies have many vitamins and minerals that provide major health benefits. They are best known as a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote brain and heart health. Anchovies also have selenium, which, if eaten regularly, may reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
Other health benefits of anchovies include:
Heart Health
Anchovies are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which offer powerful benefits for your heart. Studies show they may reduce your triglyceride levels, slow the buildup of plaque in your arteries, and reduce your blood pressure. They may also lower your risk of stroke by reducing blood clotting.
Thyroid Protection
One serving of anchovies contains 31 micrograms (mcg) of selenium. Teens and adults should aim to get 55 mcg of selenium per day. A study from the 1990s highlighted selenium as part of an enzyme that can activate the thyroid. Additional research suggests that selenium deficiency may lead to thyroid problems.
Eye Health
Experts recommend that men get 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day, while women should get 1.1 grams. One serving of anchovies has 0.45 grams of the omega-3 known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 0.77 grams of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Studies suggest that diets rich in these omega-3s can reduce your chances of developing macular degeneration, which can distort vision.
Alzheimer’s Prevention
In a Harvard Medical School study, researchers found that those who ate the most omega-3 fatty acids had lower levels of the protein beta-amyloid, which is a marker for Alzheimer’s disease..
Nutrition
Anchovies are loaded with protein, a crucial building block used within your body to repair tissue, create muscle mass, and boost metabolism.
Anchovies are also an excellent source of:
Omega-3 fatty acids
Niacin
Vitamin B12
Calcium
Selenium
Potassium
Vitamin A
Nutrients per Serving
A three-ounce serving of anchovies contains:
Calories: 111
Protein: 17 grams
Fat: 4 grams
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar:0 grams
Things to Watch Out For
When cured, anchovies can be high in sodium. They are lower in mercury than many types of seafood, but they should still be eaten in moderation.
How to Prepare Anchovies
The largest anchovy catches take place in November and December. However, because they are so often preserved, these fish can be enjoyed throughout the year. You can find them in most grocery stores, seafood markets, or specialty food shops.
When choosing anchovies, pay attention to their preparation. Preservation methods can have a significant impact on flavor. This can also affect nutrition, as some approaches increase fat or sodium content. Stronger flavors can often be found in anchovies stored in jars instead of cans.
You can eat anchovies raw, but they are typically smoked, salted, or packed in brine. Try these ideas to add anchovies to your diet:
Add to a sandwich with tomato, lettuce, and aioli
Layer on toast with a soft-boiled egg for breakfast
Sprinkle in scrambled eggs for a hint of umami
Toss anchovies with mixed greens, lemon, and olives to create an enticing salad
Brush with olive oil and bake with bread crumbs
Stir-fry with soy sauce and sesame oil
Add to pasta along with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes
Simmer in tomato soup with bay leaves and thyme
Use as a topping on a homemade pizza
Source: www.webmd.com
