Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight! Smelt, a type of fish, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its tender texture and rich flavor profile. And when cooked just right, it can become incredibly crispy and savory. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering smelt recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic combinations like pan-fried smelt with lemon garlic butter to more adventurous options like beer-battered smelt with tartar sauce, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab some smelt and get ready to experiment with different flavors and cooking methods. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of the 18 recipes, exploring their unique ingredients, preparation methods, and serving suggestions.
Pan-Fried Smelt with Lemon Garlic Butter
Experience the tender flavor of pan-fried smelt elevated by a bright and citrusy lemon garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 smelt fillets (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the smelt under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and swirl until melted.
3. Place the smelt fillets in the skillet, skin side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
4. Flip the smelt over and cook an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix together the remaining butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Remove the smelt from the skillet and place on a plate. Spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top of each fillet.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Beer-Battered Smelt with Tartar Sauce
Discover the perfect blend of crispy beer batter and tender smelt fish, served with a tangy tartar sauce. This recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fish, cleaned and scaled
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
2. Gradually add beer, stirring until batter forms.
3. Dip each smelt fish into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered smelt for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smelt Tempura with Spicy Mayo Dip
Experience the crispy, flavorful delight of Japan with this simple recipe for Smelt Tempura paired with a spicy kick from our homemade Spicy Mayo Dip.
Ingredients:
For the Smelt Tempura:
– 1 pound smelt fish (or small whitebait), rinsed and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Mayo Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and soda water to create the batter.
2. Dip each smelt fish into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the battered smelt for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Mix all Spicy Mayo Dip ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve tempura with spicy mayo dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Smelt with Herb and Garlic Marinade
Elevate the flavor of smelt with a zesty marinade, perfect for a quick and easy summer dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 smelt fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the smelt fillets in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and toss to coat.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove smelt from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill smelt for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smelt and Potato Hash with Fresh Herbs
This hearty hash is a perfect way to showcase the flavors of springtime smelt and potatoes, elevated by the brightness of fresh herbs. A great accompaniment to any meal or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fillets, scaled and cleaned
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add smelt fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Remove potatoes from oven and stir in chopped parsley and chives. Season with lemon juice to taste.
6. Serve smelt on top of potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Deep-Fried Smelt with Cajun Seasoning
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this crispy and addictive recipe for Deep-Fried Smelt with Cajun Seasoning. This spicy treat is perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, gutted and cleaned
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (like Tony’s)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each smelt into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
5. Fry smelt for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Smelt Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
This refreshing ceviche is a perfect showcase for the delicate flavor of smelt, a type of fish often overlooked in favor of more popular species. With its zesty lime dressing and fragrant cilantro, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fillets
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt, to taste
– 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Cut the smelt into small pieces and place them in a shallow dish.
2. Pour the lime juice over the fish, making sure that all surfaces are coated.
3. Sprinkle the cilantro, salt, onion, and jalapeño pepper evenly over the top of the fish.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None – this dish is served raw!
Baked Parmesan-Crusted Smelt
A classic comfort food gets a crispy upgrade with this simple recipe for Baked Parmesan-Crusted Smelt. With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes of baking time, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying main course or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and patted dry
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each smelt into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated smelt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the smelt and sprinkle with lemon zest.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smelt Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of the Pacific Northwest with these crispy smelt tacos smothered in a zesty avocado lime crema. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, rinsed and patted dry
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Avocado Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Tortillas, warmed
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Dredge smelt in flour mixture (flour, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper).
2. Fry smelt in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
4. Assemble tacos by placing fried smelt on a warmed tortilla, then topping with Avocado Lime Crema and desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smelt Chowder with Bacon and Corn
A hearty and flavorful chowder that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of smelt, all tied together with crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt fillets, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups fish stock
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the smelt and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the corn kernels and flour. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the fish stock, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the chowder cook for 10-12 minutes or until the smelt is cooked through.
7. Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Smelt Fritters with Dill Yogurt Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful treat from the North Atlantic! Smelt Fritters are a classic coastal dish that pairs perfectly with a tangy and creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Smelt Fritters:
– 1 pound smelt (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dill Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the smelt and toss until well coated with the flour mixture.
3. Dip each smelt piece into the beaten egg and then coat with the flour mixture again.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the smelt fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (frying time: 6-8 minutes)
Enjoy your crispy Smelt Fritters with a refreshing Dill Yogurt Sauce!
Smelt Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Glaze
Savor the delicate flavor of smelt, elevated by the warmth of ginger and the richness of soy glaze. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh smelt fillets
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the smelt under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced ginger and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until golden.
5. Add smelt fillets, soy sauce, honey, and orange zest. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, until fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smelt Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
Discover the rich flavors of New Orleans with this delectable Smelt Po’ Boy sandwich, topped with a tangy Remoulade sauce. This classic combination is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked smelt fillets
– 4 crusty French bread rolls
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Remoulade sauce (see below)
– Mayonnaise
– Mustard
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the smelt fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the French bread rolls.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Remoulade sauce on each roll, followed by a few smelt fillets, lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and a dollop of mayonnaise.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smelt and Mushroom Risotto
This rich and creamy risotto combines the delicate flavor of smelt with the earthy goodness of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With its tender texture and savory flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh smelt, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add smelt and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
6. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in Parmesan cheese and cooked smelt.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smelt Skewers with Miso Glaze
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of smelt paired with a sticky miso glaze, perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, and grated ginger.
3. Thread smelt onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over the smelt, making sure they’re all coated.
5. Place skewers on grill or grill pan and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until smelt are cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Smelt Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Discover the delightful combination of smelt, citrus, and herbs in this refreshing salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smelt, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley and dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped smelt, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the smelt mixture and toss to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley and dill.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Smelt Croquettes with Spicy Aioli
Discover the delightful combination of crispy smelt croquettes served with a creamy and spicy aioli dipping sauce, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup smelt fish, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the Spicy Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and salt.
2. Add smelt fish to the mixture and gently combine.
3. Shape into small patties (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Dip each patty in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Fry croquettes in hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
6. For the Spicy Aioli, mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve croquettes with chilled Spicy Aioli.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including frying time).
Smelt Pasta with Garlic White Wine Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the delicate flavor of smelt with a rich and savory garlic white wine sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying serving of al dente pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz smelt (or small fish), cleaned and scaled
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add smelt to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Remove smelt from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Add white wine and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has reduced slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta, smelt, and garlic white wine sauce in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of crispy and savory smelt recipes! From Pan-Fried Smelt with Lemon Garlic Butter to Deep-Fried Smelt with Cajun Seasoning, this collection of 18 mouthwatering dishes offers a variety of ways to prepare this delicious fish. Whether you prefer traditional methods like Baked Parmesan- Crusted Smelt or more adventurous approaches like Smelt Tempura with Spicy Mayo Dip, there’s something for everyone. Discover new flavors and techniques to elevate your smelt game and impress your friends and family.
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