How to Make Crispy Fried Smelts - A Step-by-Step Guide

There's something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown piece of fried fish. And when it comes to small, delicate fish like smelts, the crispy coating adds a delightful crunch that complements their tender, sweet flesh. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a festive appetizer, Crispy Fried Smelts are easy to prepare and absolutely delicious.

Native to the Northern Hemisphere, smelts are small, silvery fish with a delicate, mild flavor. They are often...

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • ¾ pound cleaned smelt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying, or as needed

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Servings: 3

  • Whisk flour and salt together in a pie pan. Dredge smelt in flour mixture until well coated on the outsides and in the cavities.
  • Heat 1/4 inch oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Working in batches, fry smelt in hot oil until crisp and firm, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Nutrition

    440 cal.

    • Total Fat: 19g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 91mg
    • Sodium: 4845mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 43g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 1g
    • Protein: 22g
    • Calcium: 102mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 341mg