Salt and Pepper Fried Smelt is a delicious seafood dish that offers a satisfying crunch combined with the bold, savory flavors of salt and pepper. This easy-to-make recipe is a great choice for a meal that won’t require too much effort, yet will still impress with its crispy texture and rich taste. The smelt are lightly coated in a spiced flour mixture before being fried to a golden brown. Serve them hot with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing finish. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or exploring new flavors, this dish is a delightful addition to your meal repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smelt, cleaned and gutted
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 whole lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Mix together the flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
2. Dredge the cleaned smelt in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is coated evenly, and shake off any excess.
3. Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Carefully place the smelt in the hot oil in batches, cooking each side until golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried smelt from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve the smelt immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Keywords: Crispy, Golden, Fried

Spice Rack: Salt, Pepper

Save This Recipe

---

Chopped is powered by people alongside Cookie, our AI sous-chef. Every cook and kitchen is unique, so be sure to check seasoning, temperature, and cook time as you go. Consult packaging for dietary information and always follow food safety guidelines.

---