anchovy paste
Definition
Noun: A soft, moist mixture made primarily from processed anchovies, used as a seasoning or flavoring agent in sauces, spreads, and other dishes.
Usage
"Anchovy paste" is used as a concentrated ingredient to add a savory, salty, umami flavor to food. It is typically stirred into salad dressings, pasta sauces, dips, or used as a spread on bread or crackers. A small amount is often sufficient due to its strong taste.
Examples
- The Caesar salad dressing recipe calls for a teaspoon of anchovy paste.
- She spread a thin layer of anchovy paste on the toast before adding the tomatoes.
- To enhance the depth of flavor, he added a bit of anchovy paste to the tomato sauce.
Advanced Usage
- As a flavor base: Anchovy paste can be cooked in oil at the beginning of preparing a sauce or soup to form a foundational layer of savory flavor.
- Example: Start your puttanesca sauce by sautéing a spoonful of anchovy paste in olive oil with garlic.
Variants and Related Words
- Anchovy (noun): The small, oily fish from which the paste is made.
- Fish paste (noun): A broader category of pastes made from other types of fish.
- Paste (noun): A general term for any soft, moist, and thick mixture.
Synonyms
- Anchovy essence
- Anchovy purée
Related Phrases
- Tube of anchovy paste: Refers to the common packaging format, similar to tomato paste.
- Example: Keep a tube of anchovy paste in your refrigerator for quick flavor boosts.
Noun
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paste made primarily of anchovies; used in sauces and spreads
