This is a Light, yet super crunchy Fried Smelt recipe that you can't get enough of. I've tried and tested multiple recipes until I came up with this one using rice flour and avocado oil for a lighter and crispier feast. The fish stays crunchy unlike most recipes out there. It's one of the best smelt recipes to make as an appetizer to share. Seriously, it's addicting!
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What is Smelt Fish?
Smelt fish are small, silvery fish are not only delicious but they're also packed with essential nutrients, like omega-3s. They are a widely popular small fish, second to sardines. Sardines can be a good alternative for this recipe if you can't get ahold of smelt.
I grew up eating fried sardines with tahini sauce on the Mediterranean, which was such a treat. Now, I can reminisce using my own healthier version that I can eat all day long.
The Mediterranean diet is all about good-for-you ingredients, but we do love fried food from time to time. This fried smelt recipe is unlike any other recipes, because I use ingredients to make it delicious without compromising health.
What's Special About This Fried Smelt Recipe
- Extra Crispy - It's extremely crispy, from rice flour. I have tried it with regular flour, which doesn't do it justice.
- Stays Crispy - Unlike most recipes out there, I created this out to be perfectly crispy long after it comes out of the pot!
- Gluten-Free - It's hard to find a gluten-free fried recipe that works, and is delish. I like using rice flour for a gluten-free coating, but I also prefer it over flour for many reasons. For one, the coating turns out extra crispy with that addicting crunch. Secondly, no bloating from the gluten. Win win.
- No Canola or Vegetable Oil - This recipe uses avocado oil for frying, instead of traditional vegetable oil or canola. Avocado oil can handle the heat, plus has anti-inflammatory benefits, instead of the inflammatory other options.
- You can't tell it's healthy - Because avocado oil has zero taste, you can't tell it's any different than a traditional frying oil. Again, eat the delicious fried food, but without the guilt.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Smelt - I purchase frozen smelt and thaw them in the fridge overnight. You can opt for smelt with their heads or without, depending on your preference. I've done both.
- Can't find smelt? Use sardines instead.
- Can't find smelt? Use sardines instead.
- Avocado Oil - for frying. It's flavorless and won't change the taste whatsoever.
- White Rice Flour - I like using Bob's red mill after trying a few other brands. If you prefer to use another brand, make sure it's extra fine.
- Salt and Pepper. I used sea salt. You can taste test the first batch to see if you want to add more salt to your liking. The more salt the more the flavor comes alive. But I did use a generic amount to suite most people.
- Tahini Sauce and Lemon wedges for serving.
What's The Best Way To Fry Smelt?
In a pot, pour about 2" of avocado oil and warm to 350-375 degrees F. Fry the smelt until they're golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. I turn them often to get an even cook on all sides. Then, place on a paper towel-lined plate to cool while the following batches are cooked.
FAQs
You can buy smelt from most seafood markets or grocery stores. They are sold fresh or frozen, and both work for this recipe if they're properly thawed.
I like to place frozen smelt in the fridge overnight until I'm ready to use them. Then clean them under cold running water, and dry the with a paper towel before cooking.
Yes, if you want to use another oil instead of avocado there are several other options. Make sure it has a high smoke point and is flavorless like avocado oil is.
No, smelt are considered a low-mercury fish, making them a safe and healthy choice for consumption. However, it's always a good idea to consume a variety of fish and seafood to minimize exposure to any potential contaminants.
Fried smelt is best enjoyed immediately. When I tested out this recipe multiple times, I had extras on hand and placed them in the fridge in an airtight container and air fried them the next day until warm. It worked out well!
More Appetizer Recipes
Crunchy and Light Fried Smelt
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb Smelt fish head on or off
- 1.5 cups Rice Flour I used Bob's after trying out others
- 2.5 teaspoons Sea salt , or to taste
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- Avocado oil for frying *see notes for options
- Lemon for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the rice flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Rinse the smelt under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Heat avocado oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure there is enough oil to fully submerge the smelt.
- Dip each smelt into the rice flour mixture, coating it evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
- Using a spider spoon, place the coated smelt into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the smelt for about 2 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Use a spider spoon or tongs to transfer the fried smelt to a cookie rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
- Repeat the process with the remaining smelt until they are all fried.
- Serve the fried smelt hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish. They are best enjoyed immediately. They pair well with a lemon herb tahini sauce.
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