Dried Anchovy from Vietnam: A Premium Export for Global Markets
Vietnam has long been known as a leading exporter of high-quality dried anchovies, supplying authentic, sun-dried anchovies to markets worldwide. Sourced primarily from the eastern coastal regions of Vietnam, where the sea’s rich biodiversity ensures premium raw materials, our dried anchovy undergoes strict processing and quality control to meet international standards.
Why Does the
Name Matter?
Understanding the different names of dried anchovy across global markets helps importers and distributors identify the right product for their customers. Whether it’s Dagaa in Africa, Dilis in the Philippines, or Niboshi in Japan, dried anchovy is an essential product that connects cultures through food
A Brief History of Anchovy: A Timeless Ingredient
Anchovies have been prized since ancient times, dating back to the Roman Empire, where they were a key ingredient in garum, a fermented fish sauce similar to today’s fish sauce in Southeast Asia. Historically, anchovy was seen as both a preserved protein source and a luxury item in some cultures, making it a versatile and valued seafood product across the world.
How Vietnamese Dried Anchovy is Processed
The traditional drying process is what sets Vietnamese anchovy apart. The fresh catch is boiled and then dried under the sun, preserving the natural flavors and nutritional integrity.
We offer:
✅ Standard sun-dried anchovy (Moisture: 16%–25%) – The most common type, retaining just enough moisture to maintain its rich taste.
✅ Lower-moisture anchovy (Moisture: less than 15%) – Sundried entirely for a longer shelf life and a crisper texture.
✅ Salt content: ~10% – Naturally occurring sea salt, giving anchovy its signature umami depth.
✅ Minched head percentage: <3% – Ensuring a higher whole-fish ratio, appealing to gourmet markets.
Our premium dried anchovy undergoes traditional process
First boiled to lock in its natural flavors, then sun-dried to achieve the perfect texture and extended shelf life. This time-honored method ensures a rich umami taste, making it a sought-after ingredient in global cuisines and various industries.
Different Names of Dried Anchovy in Global Markets
Dried anchovy is a staple seafood product worldwide, but did you know that it is known by different names across various markets? In each region, anchovy plays an important role in local cuisine, culture, and even trade, it is a globally recognized yet locally unique ingredient.
Dried Anchovy Names Around the World
🌍 Tanzania & East Africa: "Dagaa"
In Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, dried anchovies are called Dagaa.
This small fish is a crucial protein source for millions of people, often eaten fried or mixed into stews.
🌍 Korea: "Myeolchi" (멸치)
In South Korea, dried anchovy, or Myeolchi, is used in making anchovy broth (myeolchi yuksu), which serves as a base for soups, stews, and jjigae (Korean hot pots).
Korean anchovies come in different sizes, with smaller ones used for seasoning and larger ones for making broth.
🌍 Japan: "Niboshi" (煮干し)
Japanese dried anchovy, Niboshi, is often boiled and dried before being used to make dashi stock, the foundation of many Japanese dishes like miso soup.
It is also eaten as a snack or stir-fried with soy sauce and sugar for Niboshi Tazukuri, a popular side dish.
🌍 The Philippines: "Dilis"
In the Philippines, dried anchovies are called Dilis and are commonly fried to a crisp and served with garlic rice and vinegar dip.
Sweet and spicy Dilis is also a popular snack.
🌍 Malaysia & Indonesia: "Ikan Bilis"
Ikan Bilis is widely consumed in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore.
It is often deep-fried until crispy and served with nasi lemak, stir-fried vegetables, or sambal chili sauce.
High-quality Ikan Bilis is carefully selected with minimal heads and bones for export markets.
🌍 India: "Kozhuva" or "Nethili"
In Southern India, dried anchovy is known as Kozhuva (Malayalam) or Nethili (Tamil).
It is often cooked in spicy curries or deep-fried as a crispy side dish.
🌍 Italy & Spain: "Acciughe Secche" & "Boquerones Secos"
In Italy, dried anchovies are called Acciughe Secche and are used in pasta, sauces, and Mediterranean dishes.
In Spain, they are called Boquerones Secos, often rehydrated and marinated in vinegar or added to traditional tapas dishes.
🌍 China: "Gan Yu" (鱼干)
In China, dried anchovy is called Yu Gan (鱼干), meaning "dried fish."
It is often stir-fried with chili and garlic or used in congee and soups.
🌍 Vietnam: "Cá Cơm Khô"
In Vietnam, dried anchovy is called Cá Cơm Khô, a popular ingredient in making Vietnamese fish sauce (nước mắm), soups, and stir-fries.
The Mekong Delta and East Vietnam Sea are the main regions for anchovy fishing and drying.
Dried Anchovy is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. Often used in various cuisines, these small fish provide a unique savory taste, contributing to the depth of flavor in soups, salads, and sauces. Their nutritional benefits, including high protein content and essential omega-3 fatty acids, make them a healthy addition to any meal.
We also offer high-quality headless dried anchovy, carefully processed to meet diverse market preferences, ensuring convenience and premium taste for our global customers.
Beyond Human Consumption: Other Uses of Dried Anchovy
While anchovy is best known as a culinary delight, it also has practical applications beyond human food:
🐾 Pet Food Industry – High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutrient-rich ingredient for pet food.
🎣 Aquaculture Feed – Used as feed for farmed fish and shrimp due to its excellent nutritional profile.
🌱 Organic Fertilizer – Anchovy by-products are sometimes used as natural fertilizers, enriching soil with essential nutrients.
Customized Packaging for Exporters
Our export-grade anchovy is meticulously sorted, ensuring that only the best-quality fish reaches global markets. To cater to different business needs, we offer customized packaging solutions, including:
📦 Special 12kg Master Carton Packaging:
Each master carton contains 4 inner boxes of approximately 3kg each, offering convenience for wholesalers and distributors.
Thoughtfully designed for efficient storage and easy handling.
We export to major international markets, including Nigeria and Ghana, they are often used in soups like egusi soup, light soup and okra soup for added umami flavor
Why Choose Our Dried Anchovy?
✅ Premium-Grade Selection – Carefully sorted to ensure high quality
✅ Strict Moisture & Salt Control – Tailored to different market needs
✅ Custom Packaging for Convenience – Optimized for efficient distribution
✅ Sustainably Sourced & Processed – Ethical and eco-friendly production methods
“📦 Looking to import high-quality Vietnamese dried anchovy? We provide customized packaging and moisture levels, tailored to different global markets. Contact us today to explore our export options! 🌊🐟”
