Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb small smelts, cleaned and rinsed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup bread crumbs (optional: add Parmesan cheese)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Optional: Tartar sauce or tomato paste for dipping
Instructions
- Clean and rinse the smelts. Pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, bread crumbs, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge smelts in the flour mixture, coating them evenly.
- Heat oil over medium heat. Fry the smelts in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.