Fried smelt with chard
6 servings
30 minutes
Fried smelt with chard is a dish infused with the spirit of Russian cuisine—simple yet incredibly delicious. Smelt, known for its tender and slightly sweet flavor, gains a crispy golden crust from frying in a fragrant mix of flour and spices. Paired with chard that adds freshness and a hint of zest, the dish transforms into an exquisite gastronomic experience. It's not just fish with greens—it's a harmony of textures and flavors where the juiciness of chard balances the crispy fish while spices add depth. Fried smelt is a traditional treat from Russia's northern regions, especially popular in spring. Served hot with lemon to enhance its flavor and pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine. The simplicity of preparation makes this dish a magnificent choice for a cozy home dinner.
1
Mix salt, flour, and all other spices in a bowl. Heat a large skillet over high heat, then reduce to medium and pour in olive oil. Dredge the smelt in the flour and spice mixture on all sides.
- Coarse salt: to taste
- Wheat flour: 160 g
- Cayenne pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Ground dried garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Dry mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 50 ml
- Smelt: 3 kg
2
Place the fish in the pan, leaving small spaces between the pieces, and fry for about two minutes until a bright golden crust appears, then flip and hold for another minute on the other side.
- Smelt: 3 kg
3
Transfer the fish to paper towels, then add chard to the skillet where it was fried, lightly salt it, and sauté for about three minutes, stirring with a spatula. When the chard releases water, increase the heat and evaporate all excess liquid, continuing to stir.
- Chard: 900 g
- Coarse salt: to taste
4
Place a small amount of stewed chard on serving plates and top with fried smelt.
- Chard: 900 g
- Smelt: 3 kg