Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus 4 tablespoons
  • 2 large Spanish onions, cut into eighths
  • 1 pound anchovies or sardines
  • 1 tablespoon crushed chili flakes
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound spaghetti, preferably Italian
  • 2 bunches Italian parsley, roughly chopped to yield 1/2 cup
  • 1 cup freshly toasted bread crumbs

Method

  • In a 12 to 14-inch saute pan place 3 tablespoons oil and onions and place over medium heat.
  • Cook slowly until medium golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes, and then set aside.
  • Bring 6 quarts water to boil and add 2 tablespoons salt.
  • Clean and gut anchovies and remove fillets.
  • In another 12 to 14-inch saute pan, heat remaining oil until smoking.
  • Add anchovies, chilies, and garlic and cook until fish has broken down, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  • Add onions to anchovy mixture and simmer.
  • Drop spaghetti into boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and toss into pan with anchovy mixture.
  • Add parsley and stir to coat.
  • Pour into a warmed serving bowl, sprinkle with bread crumbs and serve.