AppetizerSide Dish

Marides Tiganites

Name: Marides Tiganites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: greek
Ingredients: 500 g smelt cleaned, heads removed; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground; 2 cup vegetable oil; 1 pcs lemon cut into wedges

Crispy fried smelts, a classic Greek appetizer. These small fish are lightly floured and quickly fried until golden brown and delicious. Best served hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 25 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Allergen information: may contain gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

500 gsmelt, cleaned, heads removed
0.5 cupall-purpose flour
1 tspsalt
0.5 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
2 cupvegetable oil

for serving

1 pcslemon, cut into wedges

Equipment

slotted spoon · large pan · paper towels

The method

Step by step

1
Rinse the cleaned smelts thoroughly under cold water and pat them very dry with paper towels. Ensure they are as dry as possible to prevent oil splatter.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Drying the fish well is crucial for crispiness and to minimize splattering during frying.
2
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
About 1 min
3
Dredge each smelt in the seasoned flour, ensuring it is lightly and evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: A light coating of flour is all you need for a crispy crust.
4
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches about 175°C (350°F).
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for best results.
5
Carefully place a single layer of floured smelts into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
About 4 min
Cook’s note: Frying in batches helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even cooking.
6
Remove the fried smelts with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
About 1 min
7
Repeat the frying process with the remaining smelts.
About 4 min
8
Serve the Marides Tiganites immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cook’s note: These are best enjoyed hot and fresh.

Keep it good

Storage

Store any leftover fried smelts in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat in a dry pan or oven at 180°C (350°F) until crispy again, though they are best eaten fresh.