Fried Fresh Smelts
Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, Fried Fresh Smelts are a simple yet delightful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. These small, delicate fish are coated in a seasoned blend of all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and warm spices like paprika and garlic powder, then fried to perfection for a crunchy exterior and tender, flaky interior. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick recipe is ideal for an easy appetizer or a light meal served with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Whether you're looking to try something new or enjoy a coastal classic, these fried smelts deliver irresistible flavor and texture in every bite. Plus, they pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce or a crisp side salad, making them as versatile as they are delicious!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh smelts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 lemon wedges
Instructions
Rinse the fresh smelts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to create a seasoned coating.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 350°F (175°C) for frying.
Dredge each smelt in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated, and shake off any excess coating.
Carefully place the coated smelts into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried smelts from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining smelts.
Serve the fried smelts hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4844 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 434.3 g | 557% | |
| Saturated Fat | 62.7 g | 314% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 268.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 318 mg | 106% | |
| Sodium | 2643 mg | 115% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 173.9 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.6 g | 41% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.2 g | ||
| Protein | 99.9 g | 200% | |
| Vitamin D | 22.7 mcg | 113% | |
| Calcium | 302 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 13.9 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 1691 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
