In Southeast Asian cuisine, ikan bilis—known internationally as anchovies—are a staple ingredient due to their savoury umami flavour and high nutritional value. However, to maintain their freshness and taste over time, proper storage is essential.
In this article, Crystal of the Sea shares practical, proven ways to store ikan bilis so they stay fresh, crunchy, and flavourful for your next meal.
Contents
How to Store Anchovies to Keep Them Fresh
Ikan bilis are delicate and can lose their taste and texture if not stored properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preserving their quality for as long as possible.
1. Choose High-Quality Ikan Bilis
Begin with selecting premium ikan bilis. Look for ones that are clean, whole, and evenly dried. Good quality ikan bilis will give you a solid foundation for long-term storage and better flavour when cooked.
2. Air-Dry Before Storage
Even though most ikan bilis are sold dried, it’s best to sun-dry them again or use a low-heat oven to remove any remaining moisture. This prevents mould and improves shelf life.
3. Use Airtight Containers
Once dried, store the ikan bilis in an airtight container—glass jars or sealed plastic containers are ideal. This helps prevent exposure to humidity and keeps them crisp.
4. Store at Room Temperature (If Cool and Dry)
If your kitchen is cool and dry, room temperature storage is fine. Avoid warm, humid areas as these accelerate spoilage. Stable temperatures help delay fat oxidation and preserve the fish’s taste.
5. Keep Them in the Fridge for Long-Term Storage
For longer shelf life, place the ikan bilis in the fridge. Refrigeration slows bacterial growth and helps retain their flavour and crunch. Always ensure they are stored in an airtight container to avoid absorbing moisture or odours from other foods.
6. Store Separately from Other Foods
Avoid storing ikan bilis near food with strong smells or high moisture content. Ikan bilis tend to absorb surrounding odours and moisture, altering their natural taste. Always isolate them in sealed containers, even in the fridge.
7. Use Clean, Dry Utensils When Handling
When taking ikan bilis out of storage, use clean and dry hands or utensils. Moisture can quickly lead to spoilage, so hygiene is key to preserving their crispiness.
Should I Rinse Anchovies After Storage?
Yes, rinsing ikan bilis after storage is recommended before cooking. This helps remove excess salt and any residue. Make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before frying or mixing into dishes.
How to Cook Ikan Bilis for Best Flavour
Cooking ikan bilis the right way makes all the difference. Here are some expert tips to make sure they turn out crispy and delicious.
1. Rinse and Dry Before Frying
Wash the ikan bilis thoroughly to remove dust or salt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel or clean cloth to prevent oil splatter and improve crispiness when fried.
2. Use Moderate Oil for Crispy Results
Use just enough oil to submerge the fish but not so much that they become oily. Preheat the oil before frying to ensure the ikan bilis cook quickly and stay crunchy.
3. Choose Your Seasonings Wisely
Ikan bilis pair well with garlic, chilli, and a touch of sugar. You can also add kaffir lime leaves or lemongrass to give your dish a unique aroma.
4. Maintain Steady Frying Temperature
Avoid overheating or underheating the oil. High heat may burn the fish, while low heat will cause them to soak up oil. Keep the temperature consistent for perfect cooking results.
5. Don’t Over-Stir While Frying
Avoid over-stirring as ikan bilis are fragile. Stirring too often can cause them to break apart. Let them cook undisturbed, turning them gently only once or twice.
Read More : How to Make Anchovy Powder (Ikan Bilis Powder) and The Benefits
Looking for an Easier Way to Enjoy Ikan Bilis?
For a hassle-free experience, try Crystal of the Sea’s anchovy powder, a ready-to-use seasoning made from premium ikan bilis. Just sprinkle it over your dishes or mix into recipes for an instant flavour boost.
Our anchovy powder is rich in Omega-3, Calcium, DHA, Sodium, and Iodine, making it a nutritious choice for all ages. We also offer a wide variety of healthy products—from dried seafood to snacks and frozen food—all made with the finest ingredients.
To learn more about our full product range, click here.
Sources:
- https://www.fimela.com/lifestyle/read/5441134/tips-menyimpan-ikan-teri-kering-agar-tahan-lama-dan-tidak-bau
- https://ketik.co.id/berita/tips-menyimpan-ikan-teri-agar-tahan-lama
- https://www.haibunda.com/moms-life/20200219092009-76-81888/tips-menggoreng-ikan-teri-agar-renyah-dan-matang-sempurna
