Batter Fried Smelts

Recipe courtesy of Ontario Fish Council.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 to 3 pounds dressed smelts
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup half-and-half
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
Peanut oil for frying

Cooking Directions:

1. Place flour in bowl, stir in baking powder and salt. In another bowl, mix together half-and-half, beaten eggs, and olive oil; whisk this mixture into the flour.
2. Heat oil in large skillet to 350°F (175°C) to 375°F (190°C).
3. Place 6 smelts at a time in the batter, coat well.
4. Place smelts in hot oil — do not crowd, fry to golden brown, turning once — about 4 to 5 minutes per batch.
5. Remove from deep fat and drain on brown paper bags to absorb excess oil.

Makes 4 servings.

Recipe and photograph courtesy of Ontario Fish Council.