Are you looking for a deliciously simple recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends? Look no further! Smelt, a type of fish often overlooked in favor of more popular options like salmon or cod, is actually a hidden gem. With its delicate flavor and firm texture, smelt is perfect for a variety of cooking methods and flavors. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes that showcase the best of crispy smelt.
From classic pan-frying to innovative sushi rolls, our recipes will take you on a culinary journey around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and savory or bright and citrusy, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the wonderful world of crispy smelt!
Pan-Fried Smelt with Lemon and Herbs
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic dish, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of smelt while adding a burst of flavor from lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and scaled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the smelt under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the smelt, lemon juice, and parsley to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beer-Battered Smelt with Tartar Sauce
Get ready for a crispy, flavorful twist on traditional fish and chips! This recipe combines the sweetness of beer-batter with the tanginess of tartar sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 smelt fillets (or other white fish)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup cold beer
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce ingredients (see below)
Tartar Sauce Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped pickle relish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and beer until smooth.
2. Dip each smelt fillet into the batter, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove fish from oil and drain on paper towels.
5. To make tartar sauce, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, lemon juice, and paprika in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Serve beer-battered smelt with tartar sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Smelt with Parsley
Smelt are a mild-flavored fish that can be elevated by the rich flavors of garlic butter and fresh parsley. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and scaled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the smelt under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the smelt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the smelt.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the smelt.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Oven-Baked Smelt with Spicy Aioli
Get ready for a flavorful and crunchy twist on traditional smelt! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of smelt with the bold flavors of spicy aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen smelt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Aioli (see below for recipe)
Spicy Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Rinse smelt under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
4. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Add smelt and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place smelt on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot with Spicy Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smelt Tempura with Soy-Ginger Dip
This Japanese-inspired recipe combines the delicate flavor of smelt fish with the crunch of tempura and a tangy soy-ginger dip. Perfect for a quick and flavorful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fish, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Soy-Ginger Dip ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Add smelt pieces to the batter and coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry smelt pieces in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Soy-Ginger Dip:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (frying time)
Smelt Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
This refreshing ceviche recipe showcases the delicate flavor of smelt, enhanced by the brightness of lime juice and the earthy notes of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the smelt pieces and lime juice.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity of the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Serve:
Enjoy your Smelt Ceviche as a light and refreshing appetizer or snack. Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired.
Smelt Tacos with Avocado Crema
Experience the bold flavors of the Pacific Northwest with this unique recipe featuring smelt tacos topped with creamy avocado crema and fresh cilantro. Smelt, a mild-flavored fish, pairs perfectly with the richness of avocado and the crunch of crispy taco shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and gutted
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and salt for serving
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip smelt into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry smelt in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing fried smelt onto tortillas, topping with avocado crema, cilantro, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smelt Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
Smelt Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade Recipe
A Louisiana classic gets a smoky twist! This sandwich combines the rich flavors of smoked smelt, creamy remoulade sauce, and crispy bread for a taste sensation like no other.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of smelt (drained)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Pickle slices
– Mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Drain the smelt and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with mayonnaise and toss to coat.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until smelt is flaky and tender.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on each roll, followed by a layer of smelt, lettuce, tomato, pickle slices, and finally another dollop of remoulade.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smelt and Potato Hash with Fried Eggs
Smelt and Potato Hash with Fried Eggs: A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of pan-seared smelt, crispy potatoes, and runny eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh smelt fillets, scaled and gutted
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, toss potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, pan-fry smelt fillets in butter until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Fry eggs in the same pan as the smelt, until whites are set and yolks are runny.
6. Serve smelt and potatoes together with fried eggs on top.
Cooking Time: About 35-40 minutes
Smelt Chowder with Bacon and Corn
Smelt chowder is a classic Canadian dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe adds a smoky twist with crispy bacon and sweet corn, making it a staple for any fish lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup of corn kernels
– 2 cups of fish stock or chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Add the chopped smelt, potatoes, corn, fish stock or chicken broth, and thyme to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Grilled Smelt Skewers with Chimichurri
Smelt skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack, perfect for warm weather gatherings. Paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fillets, rinsed and patted dry
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread smelt fillets onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar.
4. Brush chimichurri sauce evenly over the smelt.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until smelt is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smelt Fritters with Spicy Mayo
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this crispy and spicy treat! Smelt Fritters with Spicy Mayo is a unique and mouth-watering combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup smelt fillets, cleaned and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Mayo (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chopped smelt, flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Beat the egg in a separate bowl, then add it to the smelt mixture and stir until combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the smelt mixture into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Spicy Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Smelt Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing Smelt Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, highlighting the delicate taste of smelt. The citrusy vinaigrette brings out the best in this seafood delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh smelt, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Add the chopped smelt on top of the salad mixture.
3. Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smelt Sushi Rolls with Wasabi and Soy
A classic Japanese dish gets a boost from the spicy kick of wasabi and the savory flavor of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade salmon
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Wasabi paste
– Soy sauce
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Cut the salmon into thin slices.
2. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place two pieces of salmon in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands.
7. Slice into individual pieces.
8. Serve with wasabi paste and soy sauce.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smelt Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Sesame
This simple and flavorful recipe combines smelt fish with a variety of colorful vegetables, crispy sesame seeds, and savory soy sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen smelt fish, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the smelt fish and broccoli; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame seeds.
5. Pour the soy-sesame mixture over the fish and vegetables; stir-fry until everything is coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smelt Risotto with Lemon Zest
Experience the simplicity of a creamy risotto infused with the delicate flavor of smelt and the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 smelt fillets (about 1 pound), cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 teaspoons)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, about 30 seconds.
4. Add 1/2 cup stock and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat process, adding stock in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in butter and chopped smelt. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Smelt Pasta with Garlic and Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the bold flavors of smelt, garlic, and chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb smelt, cleaned and sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced smelt to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to flake apart.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, smelt mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smelt Croquettes with Dill Yogurt Sauce
Discover the delight of pan-seared smelt croquettes served with a refreshing dill yogurt sauce. This recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and scaled
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dill Yogurt Sauce (see below)
Dill Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each smelt fillet into the egg mixture, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Dill Yogurt Sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of crispy, delicious smelt recipes! From classic pan-fried options like Pan-Fried Smelt with Lemon and Herbs to innovative dishes like Beer-Battered Smelt with Tartar Sauce, these 18 mouth-watering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover new ways to prepare smelt, from oven-baked and tempura-style to tacos, po’ boys, and even sushi rolls! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these simple yet flavorful recipes will have you hooked on the taste of crispy smelt in no time.
