Easy Japanese Pan Fried Smelt Recipe

Serves/Makes: 2

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound finger sized fresh sea smelt, cleaned and patted dry
• 1/2 onion, sliced in rings
• 1 red pepper, cut into long thin strips
• 1 lime
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/2 cup corn starch

How to cook Easy Japanese Pan Fried Smelt:

• Saute the onions and peppers in a tablespoon of oil for a few minutes, till just slightly softened.
• Remove from heat, add lime, sugar and vinegar, and set aside in a covered casserole dish.
• Dry the inside smelt cavity to prevent splatter. Season with salt and fresh pepper, then coat lightly with corn starch.
• Fill a frying pan 2/3 inch with oil, and heat. Slip in smelt and fry until golden on the edges. When done transfer on paper towels.
• When slightly cooled, put smelt in a deep dish and cover with onion pepper vinegar.
• Let marinate for a bit before serving. The longer it sits in the vinegar, the better.

Notes:
The Easy Japanese Pan Fried Smelt is a very affordable dish. Delicious, simple, and easy recipe.

Tips:
Fresh smelts should be stored refrigerated at 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C), excess liquid drained, packed into airtight containers and eaten within 3 to 4 days, or 1 to 2 days when fried.
Smelts should be frozen at 0°F (-18°C), into airtight food containers, immediately after buying bought frozen, smelts should be eaten within 4 to 6 months for maximum freshness.

This recipe for Easy Japanese Pan Fried Smelt serves/makes: 2

Main Ingredient: Smelt
Preparation Method: Pan Fried/Sauteed
Cuisine: Japanese