Marinated Sprats Delight

This recipe for marinated sprats brings a taste of the Baltic Sea to your table, offering a unique and refreshing appetizer perfect for seafood lovers. The dish features sprats, a fish traditional to the Liepāja region, known for its cucumber-like aroma and resemblance to the herring. The simple yet flavorful marinade enhances the natural taste of the fish, resulting in a delicacy that is both light and satisfying. Traditionally, fresh-caught fish are used without washing to preserve their robust flavor, ensuring a true taste of Latvia with every bite. The rich, nuanced taste of these marinated sprats makes the preparation process worth every moment. The added touch of garden cress brings a fresh pop to this meal. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal treat, these marinated sprats are bound to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy them with a slice of crusty bread or with a light salad to complement their delicate flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg sprats or smelt
• ½ cup fish stock
• ¼ onion

Marinade

• 7 allspice berries
• 1 heapful tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon table vinegar (9%)
• A pinch of garden cress for garnish

Preparation Time

• Total time: 60 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by descaling the fish. Carefully remove the head and clean the insides by making a light incision along the stomach to remove any organs.
2. Check Thoroughly: Use a damp paper towel to wipe away the blood, ensuring the fish is clean and ready for marinating.
3. Trim the Fins: Remove any fins and pectoral fins for a clean presentation.
4. Fillet the Fish: To fillet, use a sharp, thin knife, running it along the backbone to separate the fillet from the bones.
5. Sauté Spices and Onion: Crush the allspice berries and place them in a hot dry pan until they become fragrant.
6. Add Onions: Slice the onion into half-moons and add them to the pan, sautéing until they turn translucent.
7. Prepare the Marinade: Pour in the fish stock, and add salt, sugar, and vinegar to the onion mixture. Allow the marinade to simmer and reduce over low heat.
8. Cool the Marinade: Once reduced, let the marinade cool to room temperature before using.
9. Marinate the Fillets: Place the fillets in a dish and pour the cooled marinade over them. Ensure the fish is submerged and let it soak for a minimum of 15 minutes.
10. Final Touches: Sprinkle garden cress over the marinated fillets to add a fresh, peppery flavor.
11. Optional Serving: If preferred, you can pour the marinade over fried fish for a different texture and taste experience.

Tips

• For a deeper flavor, marinate the fish longer, preferably overnight.
• Garden cress can be substituted with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
• Adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste for a sweeter or tangier marinade.

Nutrition

• Calories: 210 kcal per serving
• Protein: 22g
• Fats: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 5g

Variations

• Use herring or mackerel if sprats are unavailable.
• Add sliced fennel for a herbal note to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with rye bread or boiled potatoes.
• Serve with a crisp white wine or light beer.

Best Places

• Sparka Cafe - Known for their take on Latvian seafood dishes. Location: 12 Lighthouse Rd, Liepāja, Latvia.
• Nordic Bistro - A cozy spot with a great selection of Baltic dishes. Location: 30 Sea Ave, Tallinn, Estonia.
• Seaside Delights - Offers a fresh take on traditional Baltic sea flavors. Location: 45 Beachside Dr, Gdańsk, Poland.
• Fisherman's Wharf - A must-visit for lovers of smoked and marinated fish. Location: 21 Harbor St, Riga, Latvia.
• Ocean View Restaurant - Combines local flavors with international cuisine. Location: 67 Shoreline Blvd, Helsinki, Finland.
• The Fishery - Famous for its fresh seafood platters and marinated dishes. Location: 39 Dockside, Oslo, Norway.
• Sea's Bounty - Delightful spot for fresh, marinated seafood meals. Location: 23 Marina Dr, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Catch of the Day - A lively place with a focus on fresh, local catches. Location: 50 Bayfront, Stockholm, Sweden.
• Liepāja Lure - Offers authentic Liepajan style marinated sprats. Location: 15 Fishmarket Ln, Liepāja, Latvia.
• Baltic Breeze - Experience a mix of traditional and modern seafood. Location: 56 Pier St, Tallinn, Estonia.

This detailed guide brings you the authentic taste of Baltic cuisine, showcasing the charm of marinated sprats as both a cultural experience and a culinary delight. Enjoy crafting this delicate dish!