Il Cucinologo
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Fried Red Mullet with Anchovy Butter

17/11/2023

Red mullet is a delicious fish that lends itself perfectly to a simple cooking method like frying, which enhances its flavor. The combination with anchovy butter adds a touch of intensely Mediterranean flavor. Here is the recipe to prepare Fried Red Mullet with Anchovy Butter.

Ingredients

  • 4 fresh red mullet, gutted and cleaned
  • Flour, as needed for coating
  • Oil for frying
  • Salt
  • 100 g of soft butter
  • 4-5 anchovy fillets in oil
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • Chopped parsley, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing the anchovy butter. In a food processor, add the drained anchovy fillets, garlic, parsley, and soft butter. Blend everything until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If you prefer, you can also do this with a fork, mashing the ingredients well until combined with the butter.

  2. Transfer the anchovy butter onto a sheet of parchment paper and roll it into a cylinder, then place it in the refrigerator to firm up.

  3. Coat the red mullet in flour, making sure it adheres well over the entire surface.

  4. Shake the red mullet lightly to remove excess flour.

  5. In a large pan, heat the frying oil and fry the red mullet until golden and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.

  6. Once cooked, drain the red mullet and place them on paper towels. Season lightly with salt.

  7. Plate the red mullet and finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice.

  8. Cut the anchovy butter into rounds and place them on top of the hot red mullet so that the heat slowly melts them.

You can serve the red mullet accompanied by a fresh salad or grilled seasonal vegetables for a lighter side dish.

Fun Facts

Red mullet are known for their vibrant red color and the quality of their flesh, tender and flavorful. In many areas of the Mediterranean, they are considered a true delicacy, often appreciated for preparing simple dishes that enhance their flavor. Flavored butter is a typical addition from French cuisine, but the use of anchovies is a clear nod to Italian tradition, which loves these small fish for their ability to flavor and enrich dishes.