Anchovy fritters are also known as cucur ikan bilis or jemput-jemput ikan bilis. It is a very popular snack but the preparation is not easy to master. A common problem is that the results are not crisp or the fritters are tough and not soft.
The most important ingredient in making fritters is wheat flour. I use the Faiza brand because of its high protein content at 10.5% is very suitable. Other brands can also be substituted but for best results use a high protein flour. The high protein content allows the batter to absorb and retain more water even after frying. This will result in a softer fritters.
The amount of water and flour can vary according to the weather because the ability of the flour to absorb water depends on the humidity of the air. On a rainy or cloudy day the water content in the air will be high and the flour will absorb more water and we need to reduce the water, while on a hot day, the air is drier and the flour needs more water added.
After frying, the picks can be served with your favorite chili sauce.
Ingredients
230g (2 cups) g wheat flour
30g anchovies
1 large onion
1 red chili
1 teaspoon of salt or to taste
1 1/2 cup of water
Method
- Slice red onions and red chilies.
- Wash the anchovies with a little water.
- Put the flour in a suitable container.
- Add the sliced red onions and red chillies.
- Pour 250ml or 1 cup of water and stir gently.
- When it starts to combine, add 125ml or 1/2 cup of water.
- Depending on the hydration level of the dough, add water or add flour and salt.
- Mix until no more lumps and leave to rest for 5 minutes so that the flour can absorb the water completely.
- Heat the oil in a pan. Use a moderately hot flame so that the fritters don’t burn.
- Add 1 tablespoons of batter for each fritter.
- Don't worry, if, the fritters seem to stick. Let the bottom of the fritters cook and start to crisp up. This will make it easier for us to separate using a fork.
- Then when the bottom has started to turn golden yellow, turn them over so that the other side can cook.
- When the two sides have a golden brown color, fritters are already be taken out of the oil to be served.
- Anchovy pickles or anchovy curry can be served with your favorite chili sauce.