Anchovy Turnovers
Savory and flaky, anchovy turnovers offer a burst of umami flavor in a delicate pastry, perfect as an appetizer or snack for seafood lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour, measure, and sift again into a mixing bowl.
- Cut in the cream cheese and butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form into a ball and chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours.
- Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 2-inch rounds.
- Place about 1/4 teaspoon of anchovy paste in the center of each round.
- Moisten the edges with water and fold to form a turnover, pressing edges together.
- Prick the tops with a fork.
- Place on a baking sheet and chill until ready to bake.
- Bake in a moderately hot oven (375°F) for 10 minutes until golden.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier dough, ensure your butter and cream cheese are cold before cutting them in. If you don't have anchovy paste, finely minced canned anchovies can be used instead. Consider adding herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. This dough can also be used for sweet turnovers by substituting the filling with fruits or jams, providing versatile options for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
These anchovy turnovers make a fantastic appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with a crisp salad or a light seafood dish. Consider serving them alongside a dipping sauce, such as a tangy lemon aioli or a simple garlic butter. For a complete meal, serve with Oyster Dressing For Turkey for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it may make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anchovy Turnovers contains roughly 615 calories, with 15g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1027mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these turnovers?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked turnovers. Place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of anchovy paste?
If you're looking for a substitute, consider using miso paste for a similar umami flavor, or finely chopped olives for a vegetarian option. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these alternatives can vary in saltiness.
How can I make these turnovers spicier?
To add heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce with the anchovy paste before filling the dough. You could also experiment with spicy seasonings in the dough for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).