Pan con Tomate with Anchovies Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to this culinary journey where Mediterranean simplicity meets exquisite flavor. Pan con Tomate is a quintessential Spanish dish that celebrates the pure, rich flavors of its simple ingredients. Traditionally served as a tapa, this delectable toast accentuates the sun-kissed flavors of ripe tomatoes and the bold punch of anchovies. This is a dish that requires minimal preparation yet promises maximum flavor, making it perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or elegant party platter.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Grater or Box Grater
- Small Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Toaster or Oven
- Mixing Spoon
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 thick slices of rustic bread, approximately 300g (10oz)
- 3 ripe tomatoes, about 300g (10.5oz) in total
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) extra virgin olive oil
- 4-6 anchovy fillets, approximately 50g (2oz)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Begin by grating the tomatoes using the coarse side of the grater, capturing the juice and pulp in a bowl. Discard the skins. Drizzle in half of the extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Stir the mixture gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or use a toaster. Lay the slices of bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can toast them in a toaster until they reach a golden crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic
Once the bread is toasted and still warm, take a clove of garlic and gently rub it over the surface of each slice. The warmth of the bread will help to impart a subtle garlic flavor, enhancing the tomato mix without overpowering it.
Step 4: Assemble the Pan con Tomate
Spoon the prepared tomato mixture generously over each slice of bread, ensuring even distribution. Lay 1 or 2 anchovy fillets across the tomato-topped toast, adding a glorious salty contrast to the sweet tomato base.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle a touch of fresh black pepper for a finishing flair. Serve these delightful Pan con Tomate with Anchovies immediately, while the bread remains crisp and the flavors at their peak.
Conclusion
Pan con Tomate with Anchovies embodies the essence of culinary simplicity—quality ingredients that speak for themselves. With perfectly balanced flavors, this dish transports you straight to the sunny terraces of Spain. We invite you to experiment with different breads or even further embellish with capers or a sprinkle of parsley for added zest. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish and sharing it with your loved ones as part of your culinary repertoire.
