This Crispy Fried Smelt Fish is a quick and easy dish that delivers delicious crunch and flavor in every bite. Coated in a light and crispy batter made from simple pantry ingredients, these tiny fish are deep-fried to golden perfection. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, they are sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Crispy & Crunchy: The perfect texture with a light, golden coating.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples.
- Great Appetizer or Main Dish: Delicious on its own or served with rice and dipping sauces.
- Mild Yet Flavorful: Smelt fish has a delicate taste that pairs well with seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 lbs smelt fish, small and cleaned
- ¾ cup flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Canola oil, for frying
Directions
- Prepare the fish: Rinse the smelt fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Make the coating: In a large bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Coat the fish: Toss the smelt fish in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess.
- Heat the oil: In a deep pan or skillet, heat about 2 inches of canola oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the fish: Carefully add the coated smelt fish in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain & Serve: Remove the fish with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried parsley or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Beer-Battered: Substitute water with beer for a crispier texture.
- Lemon & Herb: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fried fish before serving.
- Panko-Crusted: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked smelt fish in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen smelt fish?
Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before coating to ensure crispiness.
What dipping sauces go well with fried smelt?
Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or a simple squeeze of lemon juice work well.
Do I need to remove the bones?
No, smelt fish have small, soft bones that become crispy when fried and are safe to eat.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I keep the fish crispy for longer?
Place fried fish on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Can I air fry smelt fish?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
What oil is best for frying?
Canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil work best for deep frying.
Can I season the fish differently?
Yes! Try Old Bay seasoning, Cajun spice, or lemon pepper for variety.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Make sure the fish is completely dry before coating and let the coated fish rest for a few minutes before frying.
Is smelt fish healthy?
Yes! Smelt fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making them a nutritious option.
Conclusion
This Crispy Fried Smelt Fish is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a light, crunchy coating and tender fish inside, it’s an addictive treat that pairs well with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
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Print
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish featuring savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich French onion soup. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and creamy sour cream, this easy one-pan meal is packed with deep, satisfying flavors perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
Ingredients
- Meat:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Produce:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- Canned Goods:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- Pasta & Grains:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Oils & Vinegars:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Dairy:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Cook the Beef:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add ground beef, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until beef is browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the French onion soup and cooked rice. Mix well.
- Remove from heat and fold in sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Assemble & Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with green onions for freshness.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Substitutions: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Rice Options: Use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions before baking for a delicious crispy topping.
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