Skip to content
Forkin
AppetizerSide Dish

Gavros Tiganitos

Gavros Tiganitos is a classic Greek appetizer featuring small, fresh anchovies lightly coated and pan-fried until crispy. This simple preparation highlights the delicate flavor of the fish, making for a delicious and easy dish. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
25 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Easy
Download the app

Allergen information: may contain fish and gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Gavros Tiganitos

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

Ingredients

  • 500 gfresh anchovy, cleaned, heads and guts removed
  • 0.5 cupall-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tspsalt
  • 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
  • 0.5 cupolive oil

for serving

  • 1 pcslemon, cut into wedges

Equipment

shallow dish · slotted spoon · large skillet · paper towels · frying pan

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Pat the cleaned anchovies very dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispier fry.

    About 2 min

  2. 2

    In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.

    About 1 min

  3. 3

    Dredge the anchovies in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are lightly and evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Work in small batches to prevent overcrowding the dish and ensure even coating.

  4. 4

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: The oil should be hot enough that a drop of flour sizzles immediately upon contact.

  5. 5

    Carefully place a single layer of coated anchovies into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and prevent browning.

    About 1 min

  6. 6

    Fry the anchovies for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy.

    About 6 min

    Cook’s note: Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.

  7. 7

    Remove the fried anchovies from the pan with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

    About 1 min

  8. 8

    Repeat the frying process with the remaining anchovies, adding more olive oil to the pan if necessary.

    About 5 min

  9. 9

    Serve the Gavros Tiganitos immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing.

Keep it good

Storage

Store any leftover Gavros Tiganitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until crispy again, or in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes.

More recipes

All recipes
  • Biscotti di Pratodessert

    Biscotti di Prato

    These classic Italian almond biscuits are twice-baked for an irresistible crunch. Perfect for dunking in coffee, tea, or a glass of Vin Santo. Simple to make, they offer a delightful crisp texture and subtle sweetness.

    1 hr 5 min 122 kcal
  • Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookiesdessert

    Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

    These soft and chewy vegan chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Made with simple plant-based ingredients, they offer a classic flavor and texture that everyone will love. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal.

    57 min 333 kcal
  • Mee Goreng Mamakmain course

    Mee Goreng Mamak

    This spicy and savory Malaysian-style fried noodle dish features yellow noodles stir-fried with a rich sauce, vegetables, and protein. It's a popular street food, known for its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. This recipe is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.

    45 min 674 kcal
  • Uzbek Plovmain course

    Uzbek Plov

    A hearty one-pot rice pilaf from Uzbekistan, featuring tender lamb, sweet carrots, and aromatic spices. This dish is cooked in layers to develop deep flavors, with whole heads of garlic steamed on top for a creamy, mellow finish.

    2 hr 5 min 1,168 kcal
  • Sancochodinner

    Sancocho

    Sancocho is a hearty and flavorful Latin American stew, typically made with various meats and root vegetables. This version features chicken and a vibrant mix of starchy vegetables simmered in a rich, aromatic broth. It's a comforting and fulfilling meal perfect for a family gathering.

    2 hr 30 min 612 kcal
  • Bigoli in Salsamain course

    Bigoli in Salsa

    Experience the rustic charm of Venice with this traditional Bigoli in Salsa. Thick, hearty bigoli pasta is lovingly coated in a deeply savory sauce, where sweet, caramelized onions melt into pungent anchovies, creating an umami-rich symphony. This simple yet profound dish offers a taste of authentic Italian comfort, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

    1 hr
  • Quick Beer Biscuitsside dish

    Quick Beer Biscuits

    These incredibly simple biscuits come together in minutes using just a few pantry staples. The beer provides a unique, yeasty flavor and helps create a light, fluffy texture. Perfect as a side for soups and stews, or enjoyed warm with butter.

    17 min