Crispy Sheets with Butter and Anchovies

The sfoglie with butter and anchovies are a simple but delicious appetizer that combines intense and decidedly Italian flavors. Let’s see the recipe together:

Ingredients

• Sheets of carasau bread or other thin and crispy bread
• 100g of soft butter
• 1 clove of garlic
• Fresh chopped parsley to taste
• Anchovies in oil, to taste
• Lemon juice
• Freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

1. Start by preparing the butter. Take a bowl and mix the soft butter with the finely chopped garlic, a handful of fresh chopped parsley, a few drops of lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper. Make sure all ingredients are well combined.
2. If the carasau bread is too large, break it into smaller pieces, bite-sized.
3. Carefully spread the butter on the bread sheets, creating an even layer.
4. Drain the anchovies from the oil and place them on the sheets previously spread with butter.
5. Place the sfoglie on a baking tray and pass them briefly under the hot oven grill, for just a few minutes, until the butter has slightly melted and the sheets are even crispier.
6. Serve immediately while still hot and fragrant.

Trivia

Anchovies are highly appreciated in Italian cuisine for their bold flavor and versatility; they star in many classic recipes, such as Piedmontese bagna càuda. This dish is perfect to serve as an aperitif and pairs well with a glass of fresh white wine, which balances the saltiness of the anchovies with its acidity.