Smelt are small, slender fish that are popular in certain regions of the United States and Europe. Their sweet, mild flavor makes them an excellent candidate for frying. Smelt can be fried on the stove or in an air fryer for a quick, crunchy fish perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.

1. How To Cook Smelt on Stove

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh smelt, cleaned
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

Rinse the smelt under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Make sure no moisture remains on the fish.

In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, a generous pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper.

Dredge the smelt lightly in the seasoned flour, coating all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour.

Pour oil to a depth of at least 2 inches into a heavy skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering and 350°F.

Working in batches, fry the smelt for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Transfer the fried smelt to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly. Season with extra salt if desired.

Serve the hot fried smelt immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or other dipping sauces. Enjoy!

2. How To Cook Smelt in Air Fryer

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh smelt, cleaned
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cooking spray
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

Pat the smelt dry with paper towels. Make sure no moisture remains.

In a shallow dish, mix together the panko crumbs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.

One by one, coat the smelt all over in the panko mixture, pressing gently so it adheres.

Arrange the breaded smelt in a single layer on the air fryer basket, making sure none are overcrowded. Lightly spray the top with cooking spray.

Cook at 400°F for 4-6 minutes until the crust is crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or the dipping sauce of your choice. Enjoy!

3. What To Eat With Fried Smelt?

The light flavor and crunchy texture of fried smelt make them the perfect vehicle for fun sauces and sides. Here are some delicious ways to serve your freshly fried smelt:

Dipping Sauces

  • Tartar sauce – The classic pairing with fried fish. Mix mayonnaise, chopped pickles, parsley, lemon juice and other seasonings.
  • Cocktail sauce – Another traditional dip, made with ketchup or chili sauce mixed with horseradish and lemon.
  • Aioli – For an elegant spin, whip up this garlicky mayonnaise spread.
  • Honey mustard – Sweet and tangy, great contrast to the crispy smelt.

Side Dishes

  • French fries or potato wedges – What better alongside fried food?
  • Coleslaw – Cool, creamy cabbage works nicely.
  • Rice pilaf – Fried smelt goes great with rice dishes.
  • Dinner rolls – Good for soaking up all the tasty juices.

Flavor Combos

  • Give the fish Southern flair with comeback sauce, hushpuppies and slaw.
  • Asian style with rice, sesame ginger sauce and stir fried veggies.
  • Fish and chips with malt vinegar for the full British-style experience.
  • Mediterranean flavors with hummus, pita, olives and feta cheese.

The possibilities are endless when pairing items with these petite fried fish. Use your imagination and create a combo that will have everyone begging for more. Dipping the crispy smelt into a variety of fun, flavorful sauces makes for an interactive meal that feels special.

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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