Fried Smelts

By ldijoe

Fried smelt are a favorite snack of those lucky enough to live on a coast where they are fished. Related to salmon and trout, this silvery, white-fleshed, small fish is easy and quick to prepare. It makes the perfect appetizer for a hungry group waiting for dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. smelt, dressed
• 1/2 cup flour
• Olive oil for frying
• Lemon wedges

Details

Servings 6
Preparation time 10mins
Cooking time 15mins

Preparation

Step 1

Rinse the smelt and dry well with paper towels. Season with salt to taste. Dredge in flour and shake off excess.

In a deep, cast iron or heavy skillet place olive oil, about 2 inches deep. Heat on high until just barely smoking, about 350 degrees. Fry the smelt in batches until crunchy and golden brown on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes, while moving the oil with the back of a heatproof slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels.

Serve at once with lemon wedges.