Crispy Baked Ikan Bilis
These crispy ikan bilis (anchovies) make a great snack on their own and can be used as a savoury topping for many Chinese dishes. If you can’t use them up, pulse them in an electric grinder to make ikan bilis powder which is a great seasoning powder and condiment.
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The typical way of making crispy ikan bilis is by deep-frying them in hot oil, but I always avoided deep-frying unless there is absolutely no other way of substitution. The oven-baked version is oil-free and healthier, and I don’t have to worry about oil splatters as well. Bottle them in air-tight containers and store in a cool, dry place.
Step-by-Step Photos
Use cleaner, higher grade ikan bilis (the ones I used had head and tail removed; and some people use de-gutted/de-boned ones).
First, rinse the ikan bilis (anchovies) in a few changes of water depending on the saltiness of your ikan bilis (I recommend two changes of water; do not over-rinse or the ikan bilis may taste bland).
After rinsing the ikan bilis, pat dry on paper towels and arrange them one flat layer on a baking tray. For best results, allow to air dry first before baking in the oven.
Bake the ikan bilis in the oven for about 10 – 15 minutes, until they have just turned a light brown shade (see above). Use a spatula to stir and spread them evenly.
Return to oven and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the ikan bilis turn a shade of golden brown, as seen in the photo above.
Crispy Baked Ikan Bilis (Anchovies)
Ikan bilis come in vary degrees of saltiness depending on the type you buy and as a general guide, I recommend rinsing them in two changes of water before use; but if your ikan bilis is the extra-salty variety, you may need another 1-2 rinses. At the same time, do not over-rinse the ikan bilis or they will taste bland.
Ingredients:
- 200 grams ikan bilis/anchovies/江鱼仔 (roughly 200 grams per tray)
Directions:
- Rinse the ikan bilis (anchovies) in two changes of water (more if the type you bought is extra-salty).
- Pat dry the ikan bilis on paper towels and arrange them one flat layer on a baking tray. For best results, allow to air dry for about an hour before baking.
- Bake the ikan bilis in a preheated oven of 180°C for about 10 – 15 minutes, until they just turned a lovely light brown.
- Use a spatula to stir and spread the ikan bilis evenly, then continue baking at 200°C for another 10 minutes, or until they turn a shade of golden brown. Store in an airtight container in a cool and dry place.