What Are Smelts and How Can I Use Them?

Here's everything worth knowing about smelts and how to pick them, what they are, how to store them, and what to use instead, plus 4 recipes to cook tonight.

Recipes using smelts

There are 4 recipes that contain this ingredient.

Marides Marinates

Greek marinated smelts fried in flour, then simmered in a white wine and vinegar marinade with herbs and mustard. A classic cold appetizer served chilled, perfect for a meze spread.

Ukha

Ukha, the classic Russian fish soup, made with a double-stock of smelts and salmon clarified with egg white. Crystal-clear broth with poached salmon, potatoes, and carrots in every elegant bowl.

Ukha (Clear Salmon Soup)

Ukha, a traditional Russian clear salmon soup with a layered fish stock clarified to golden perfection. Poached salmon fillets, potatoes, and carrots in a sparkling broth garnished with lemon.

Deviled Smelt

Crispy deep-fried smelt coated in a fiery blend of dry mustard, cayenne, and lemon zest. Double-fried for maximum crunch, these little fish make an addictive appetizer or light seafood dinner in just 30 minutes.

All 4 recipes