Luigi's sustainable fishing along the Lazio coast between Ponza and Fiumicino uses nets to catch anchovies that are 4-6 years old (to ensure their ability to reproduce) and with rich, mature flesh. They will never get as big as the much lauded Cantabrian anchovy that is bigger due to the cooler waters and special algal blooms of the area but the flavour and texture of these Mediterranean anchovies is excellent and better than all the others we have found.

Enjoy these firm fleshed, meaty filets as part of an aperitif with a glass of fino sherry and some good bread. Only cook with them if you're feeling particularly extravagant; use the delicious, drained oil instead