Pan Fried Smelt

From my collection of handwritten recipes. Note: These tasty little fish are great served with french fries and cole slaw. Cook in small batches, wiping out pan as needed and replacing oil.

• Ready In: 38 mins
• Serves: 6
• Yields: 3 pounds fish

Ingredients

• 3  lbs smelt
• 1⁄4 cup cornmeal
• 1⁄2 cup flour
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
•  oil (for frying)
•  whole lemon

Directions

1. Clean smelt and wash thoroughly. Combine cornmeal, flour, salt and pepper in a shallow dish. Dip smelt in water and then coat with flour mixture. Lay coated smelt on waxed paper and allow to set for 15-30 minutes. Coat the bottom of a heavy skillet with oil. Fry smelt in hot oil for 4 minutes on each side. Smelt should be nicely browned. Drain on paper towels. Serve with sliced lemon.