Each day in cooking class we prepare at least one or two appetizers, a sign that it’s time to open a bottle of wine and relax. And this is a perennial favorite. Throughout Provence anchoïade (anchovy cream) is a popular starter, often used as a dip for a selection of raw vegetables. Recipes vary dramatically from cook to cook and I like to keep mine simple, with just a trio of ingredients: top-quality anchovy fillets cured in olive oil, capers, and cream.

Makes 1/2 cup (125 ml)

Equipment

A mini food processor or a standard food processor fitted with a small bowl.

INGREDIENTS

One 2.82-ounce (80 g) jar Italian anchovy fillets in olive oil (about 20 fillets)
1 tablespoon capers in vinegar, drained
1/4 cup (60 ml) light cream

METHOD

Combine the ingredients in the bowl of the food processor or a blender and process to a chunky consistency. Use as a dip for raw vegetables, to prepare Anchovy Bites (recipe in The French Kitchen Cookbook), or as a sandwich spread.

(Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.)