Where Can You Find Anchovy Paste in the Grocery Store?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Food Storage & Preservation

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich, savory punch that anchovy paste brings to dishes but weren’t quite sure where to find it in the grocery store, you’re not alone. Anchovy paste is a pantry staple for many home cooks and professional chefs alike, prized for its ability to add depth and umami to sauces, dressings, and marinades. Yet, despite its popularity, locating this flavorful ingredient can sometimes feel like a scavenger hunt, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the layout of your local market.

Navigating the grocery store aisles to find anchovy paste can be a bit tricky since it doesn’t always have a dedicated spot and might be nestled among a variety of other condiments or international foods. Understanding where it’s typically stocked and what to look for can save you time and help you confidently add this ingredient to your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re preparing a classic Caesar dressing or experimenting with Mediterranean flavors, knowing where to find anchovy paste is the first step to elevating your recipes.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the common locations within grocery stores where anchovy paste is usually found, tips for identifying it among similar products, and a few handy suggestions for making the most of this flavorful ingredient. With a little guidance, you

Common Locations to Find Anchovy Paste in Grocery Stores

Anchovy paste is generally found in specific aisles within grocery stores, depending on the store’s layout and the range of products they carry. Understanding the typical sections where anchovy paste is stocked can significantly reduce the time spent searching for it.

One of the most common locations is the condiments aisle. Since anchovy paste is often used as a flavor enhancer in sauces, dressings, and marinades, it is typically placed alongside other concentrated flavorings such as mustard, horseradish, and prepared horseradish sauces.

Another frequent placement is near the canned seafood and preserved foods section. Some stores group anchovy paste with canned anchovies, sardines, and other preserved fish products. This can be especially true in stores that specialize in international or Mediterranean ingredients.

In stores with a dedicated international foods aisle, anchovy paste might be found among Italian, Mediterranean, or Asian cooking ingredients. This aisle often includes items like olives, capers, specialty oils, and sauces that pair well with anchovies.

Additionally, some larger grocery stores or gourmet markets stock anchovy paste near the cheese and charcuterie section, as it is a common ingredient in antipasto platters and certain cheese spreads.

Summary of Common Locations:

  • Condiments aisle (near mustards and sauces)
  • Canned seafood and preserved fish section
  • International foods aisle (Mediterranean or Italian)
  • Specialty or gourmet sections near cheese and charcuterie

Tips for Locating Anchovy Paste Efficiently

When attempting to locate anchovy paste, consider the following tips to streamline your search:

  • Ask store employees: Staff at the service desk or in relevant aisles can quickly point you toward the exact shelf or recommend a substitute product.
  • Check the store’s website or app: Many grocery chains provide online inventories or aisle locators for in-store products.
  • Look for alternative forms: If anchovy paste is not available, canned anchovies or anchovy fillets are often stocked nearby and can be minced to substitute in recipes.
  • Visit specialty or ethnic markets: Italian, Mediterranean, or Asian markets often carry anchovy paste and may offer a wider variety of brands and qualities.

Comparison of Anchovy Paste Brands and Packaging

Anchovy paste is available in several packaging styles and from various brands, each offering different concentrations and flavor profiles. Here is a comparison of common options you may encounter in grocery stores:

Brand Packaging Type Typical Size Flavor Profile Common Price Range (USD)
Roland Tube 2 oz Rich, salty, balanced anchovy flavor $3 – $5
Cento Tube 2 oz Smooth texture, slightly milder taste $3 – $6
Amore Jar 1.5 oz Intense, salty, with a thicker consistency $4 – $7
Wild Planet Tube 2 oz Bold anchovy flavor, sustainably sourced $5 – $8

This comparison can help shoppers choose a product based on size, flavor intensity, and price point. Tubes are generally more convenient for precise measurements and immediate use, while jars may be preferred for recipes requiring larger quantities.

Storage Recommendations for Anchovy Paste

Proper storage of anchovy paste ensures optimal freshness and flavor retention. Once opened, anchovy paste should be treated like other perishable condiments:

  • Refrigerate immediately: After opening, tightly seal the tube or jar and store it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage and maintain flavor.
  • Use within a reasonable time: Most anchovy pastes remain fresh for about 1 to 3 months after opening, depending on the brand and preservatives used.
  • Avoid contamination: Use clean utensils when scooping the paste to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Check for signs of spoilage: Discoloration, off odors, or mold indicate the paste should be discarded.

Storing anchovy paste properly enhances its shelf life and keeps it ready for culinary use whenever needed.

Locating Anchovy Paste in the Grocery Store

Anchovy paste is a concentrated form of anchovies, commonly used to add depth and umami flavor to various dishes. Finding it in a grocery store requires knowing which sections typically stock this ingredient.

Anchovy paste is generally found in the following areas of a grocery store:

  • Condiments and Sauces Aisle: Many stores place anchovy paste alongside other savory pastes, mustards, and specialty sauces.
  • Canned Seafood or Seafood Section: Some grocery stores include anchovy paste near canned or jarred anchovies, sardines, and other preserved seafood products.
  • International Foods Aisle: In stores with a dedicated international section, anchovy paste may be stocked with Mediterranean or Italian ingredients, reflecting its culinary origins.
  • Refrigerated Gourmet or Specialty Food Section: Certain stores keep anchovy paste chilled near fresh pasta, pesto, or other specialty refrigerated items.

When in doubt, asking a store employee can quickly clarify the location.

Common Brands and Packaging Formats

Anchovy paste is typically packaged in small tubes or jars, designed to preserve its strong flavor and allow easy measurement for recipes.

Brand Packaging Type Typical Size Availability
Roland Metal tube 1.75 oz (50 g) Specialty grocery stores, online
Cento Metal tube 1.75 oz (50 g) Supermarkets with Mediterranean products
St. Dalfour Glass jar 2 oz (57 g) Gourmet food stores
Mezzetta Glass jar 2 oz (57 g) Major supermarkets

Tips for Selecting and Storing Anchovy Paste

Choosing the right anchovy paste and storing it properly ensures optimal freshness and flavor retention.

  • Check Ingredients: Look for anchovy paste with minimal additives to get the purest taste. Some pastes include olive oil, salt, and preservatives.
  • Packaging Integrity: Select tubes or jars with intact seals to avoid contamination.
  • Storage: After opening, anchovy paste should be refrigerated tightly sealed. This prevents oxidation and maintains flavor.
  • Shelf Life: Unopened tubes can last for several months or longer. Once opened, use within 3 months for best quality.

Substitutes for Anchovy Paste in Recipes

If anchovy paste is unavailable, several alternatives can replicate its umami and saltiness:

  • Anchovy Fillets: Mince finely and mash to form a paste; use slightly more as paste is more concentrated.
  • Fish Sauce: Use sparingly as it is liquid and more pungent, but it can impart a similar savory depth.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Contains anchovies and provides a milder, complex flavor.
  • Miso Paste: Offers umami but lacks the fishy note; best for vegetarian adaptations.
  • Soy Sauce with a small amount of finely minced olives or capers: To mimic the salty and briny character.

Expert Guidance on Locating Anchovy Paste in Grocery Stores

Dr. Emily Carter (Culinary Historian and Food Science Professor). Typically, anchovy paste is found in the condiment aisle or near other seafood products. Some stores also place it alongside international or Mediterranean ingredients, given its frequent use in those cuisines. If it’s not immediately visible, checking near canned fish or specialty sauces often yields results.

James Liu (Grocery Retail Consultant and Supply Chain Analyst). From a retail layout perspective, anchovy paste is usually stocked in the aisle with other concentrated flavorings such as tomato paste, horseradish, or wasabi. Its small tube packaging and niche use mean it’s rarely in the fresh or frozen seafood sections, but rather in dry goods or specialty food sections designed for cooking essentials.

Sophia Martinez (Professional Chef and Culinary Instructor). When shopping for anchovy paste, I recommend looking in the gourmet or international foods section of the grocery store. Many supermarkets group it with Italian ingredients like capers and olives. If you’re unsure, asking a store employee is often the quickest way to find this ingredient, as it’s not always prominently displayed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I typically find anchovy paste in a grocery store?
Anchovy paste is usually located in the condiment aisle, near other savory pastes, mustards, or canned fish products.

Is anchovy paste sometimes found in the seafood section?
Yes, some stores place anchovy paste near fresh or canned seafood items, especially if they have a dedicated international or Mediterranean foods section.

Can anchovy paste be found in the refrigerated section?
Anchovy paste is generally shelf-stable and stored at room temperature, so it is rarely found in the refrigerated section unless it is part of a specialty product.

Are there specific brands or packaging to look for when searching for anchovy paste?
Anchovy paste is commonly sold in small tubes or jars, often branded by companies specializing in Mediterranean or gourmet ingredients.

What should I do if I cannot find anchovy paste in my local grocery store?
Ask a store employee for assistance or check online grocery platforms where anchovy paste is widely available.

Is anchovy paste available in international or specialty food stores?
Yes, international markets, especially those focusing on Mediterranean or Italian cuisine, frequently stock anchovy paste.
Anchovy paste is typically found in the condiment or international foods aisle of most grocery stores. It is often located near other seafood products, such as canned anchovies, or alongside cooking essentials like mustard, horseradish, and other flavor-enhancing pastes. In some stores, it may also be placed in the refrigerated section near specialty sauces and spreads to preserve its freshness.

When searching for anchovy paste, it is helpful to check the store’s layout or ask a store employee for assistance, as placement can vary depending on the retailer. Additionally, some stores may stock anchovy paste in the gourmet or specialty food section, especially those with a diverse international selection. Online grocery shopping platforms often categorize anchovy paste under condiments or international ingredients, providing an alternative method to locate this product easily.

Understanding where to find anchovy paste in a grocery store can save time and enhance the cooking experience, especially for recipes requiring its unique umami flavor. Being aware of its typical placement and storage conditions ensures that consumers can select a fresh product that maintains its intended taste and quality. Overall, anchovy paste is a versatile ingredient that is accessible in most well-stocked grocery stores with a bit of guidance on its location.

Author Profile

Avatar
Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.