Fried Fresh Smelts

Description: This is a dish I remember from my childhood, and it comes to mind every time I see fresh smelts available at the grocery. Serve with mashed potatoes for a traditional Swedish meal, or french fries for a more modern meal. This dish can also be made with small herring or sardines. Posted for ZWT6.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 lbs smelt (fresh)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons butter

Steps:

1. Clean fish, and remove the heads.
2. Rinse fish well, and drain.
3. Salt the fish, lightly coat in the breadcrumbs, then fry in the butter until golden brown on both sides.
4. Serve immediately.