Liaoning-style Anchovy Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we incorporate the flavors and techniques of Liaoning cuisine into the traditional Turkish Hamsili pilav. Liaoning-style Anchovy Rice introduces Chinese ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, which infuse the dish with a distinct umami flavor. Additionally, scallions and sesame seeds are used as garnishes to add a fresh and crunchy element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Hamsili pilav, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
• 1 pound (450g) fresh anchovies, cleaned and deboned 1 pound (450g) fresh anchovies, cleaned and deboned
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish) 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish) 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the anchovies to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly browned.
4. 4.
   Stir in the rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil, coating the rice evenly with the flavors.
5. 5.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and season with salt to taste. Bring to a boil.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
8. 8.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer to a serving dish.
9. 9.
   Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Anchovies — Make sure to clean and debone the anchovies properly before using them in the recipe to ensure a pleasant eating experience.

Tips & Tricks

• If fresh anchovies are not available, you can use canned anchovies packed in oil. Drain the oil before using them in the recipe.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar to the dish before serving.
• Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Adjust the saltiness of the dish by adding more or less soy sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve Liaoning-style Anchovy Rice as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled or roasted meats.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, mold the cooked rice into a round shape using a small bowl or a rice mold. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds. This will create an elegant and visually appealing dish.