Crispy Smelt
Seafood·beginner

Crispy Smelt

Yield
Prep
Total
Serves 2
10m
18m
gluten-freedairy-freeketolow-carbappetizersnackSpray Surface

Smelt are small, whole fish that crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. You'll eat them head to tail, bones and all. This recipe will show you how to achieve maximum crispness in just minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb whole smelt, cleaned (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • Oil spray
  • Salt and your seasoning of choice
  • Lemon wedges
Season it upPairs with Old Bay Classic, Cajun Heat, Lemon Herb, or Citrus PepperSee all seasonings →

Steps

  1. 01If the smelt aren't already cleaned, pinch off the heads and pull out the guts in one motion. Rinse under cold water. Pat very dry.
  2. 02Spray lightly with oil. Season with salt.
  3. 03Ready for the air fryer.
Smelt are small, whole fish that you eat entirely: head to tail, bones and all. The bones are so fine that they become completely unnoticeable once the fish is crispy. If that sounds strange, think of them like a crunchy, savory chip in fish form. Find them at Asian, Mediterranean, or Eastern European grocery stores, usually in the freezer section. They're cheap, sustainable, and deeply underrated.
people love this variationShare your own version →

How to Air Fry It

Temp
Cook
Prep
Flip?
400°F
8m
10m
Yes
  1. 01Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 02Clean the smelt and pat them very dry.
  3. 03Toss in a light coating of oil and spices.
  4. 04Arrange in a single layer in the basket.
  5. 05Cook for 4 minutes.
  6. 06Shake the basket to flip them.
  7. 07Cook for 4 more minutes until crispy and golden.

Lightly spray the basket or tray before cooking.

Recipe Notes

Be the first to share a tip or note about this recipe. What worked, what you changed, or what you'd do differently next time.

Season it up

Pairs well

Discussion

Loading comments...