Alternatives to Anchovies

Anchovies are a small, salty fish often used as a flavor enhancer in dishes like pizzas, salads, and sauces. For those who don't eat fish or want a less pronounced taste, there are several alternatives available. From capers to olives, these substitutes offer a similar depth of flavor.

What are Anchovies

Anchovies are a small fish often preserved in salt or oil and used as a flavor enhancer in countless dishes. It has an intense, savory flavor due to its high umami content, making it a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. In the Netherlands, anchovies are widely used on pizzas, in Caesar salad dressings, and in sauces like tapenade.

Outside the Netherlands, anchovies are also loved, especially in countries like Italy and Spain, where they are incorporated into dishes like pasta puttanesca and boquerones. In Asian cuisines, anchovies are sometimes dried and used in broths. For people who don't eat fish or are looking for a milder alternative, there are many plant-based options that add a similar salty and savory flavor to dishes.

Anchovy Substitutes

• Capers: These small, pickled flower buds have a salty, savory flavor and work well as a substitute in salads and sauces.
• Olives: Especially black olives offer a similar umami flavor. They are ideal for pizzas, pastas, and tapenade.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: With their concentrated flavor and natural umami, they are an excellent plant-based alternative to anchovies.
• Miso paste: A fermented soy paste with a deep umami flavor. Perfect for flavoring sauces and dressings.
• Soy sauce: A liquid substitute that adds salty and savory flavors to dishes like sauces, soups, and stir-fries.
• Seaweed: Nori or wakame offers a briny flavor reminiscent of seafood. It's a good option for sushi, salads, and broths.
• Anchovy extract: For those who want to retain the flavor without using the whole fish, extract offers a concentrated solution in sauces and marinades.

With alternatives like capers, miso, or seaweed, you can add the same savory depth to your dishes without using anchovies. Experiment with these options to find the perfect replacement that suits your taste and diet.