Broiled Smelt
Delicious broiled smelt with a buttery lemon flavor, crispy exterior, perfect as an appetizer or light main dish for seafood lovers. Quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Clean the smelt, splitting them open if they are large.
- Dip each smelt in the butter mixture.
- Roll each smelt in flour.
- Place the coated smelt on a double boiler rack.
- Broil for 6 minutes.
- Turn each smelt once and broil for an additional minute or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the melted butter with olive oil or using a mix of herbs like dill and parsley in the butter mixture. If you don't have smelt, any small fish like sardines could work. Be sure to keep an eye on the broiler to prevent overcooking; fish cooks quickly and should be removed when it's just golden.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broiled smelt with a side of lemon wedges and a fresh green salad for a light meal. They pair beautifully with garlic bread or roasted vegetables. Consider serving with a tangy dipping sauce like tartar sauce for an extra flavor boost, or enjoy them alongside a slice of Sour Cream Cake Coffee Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broiled smelt can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broiled Smelt contains roughly 1032 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1752mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen smelt for this recipe?
Yes, frozen smelt can be used, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe. This will help the coating adhere better and ensure even cooking.
What else can I serve with broiled smelt?
Broiled smelt pairs well with a variety of sides like rice pilaf, coleslaw, or roasted potatoes. You can also add a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the fish.
How do I know when the smelt are done cooking?
The smelt are done when they are golden brown and the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Broiling for about 7 minutes total should achieve this; adjust time based on the size of the fish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).