What are the sprats? Sprats are a kind of fish. The sprats are tiny, and are normally sold canned – just like sardines. Sprats are very popular in Russia where I’m originally from, and they are sold in European ethnic supermarkets in the US. On this picture you can see a can of smoked sprats in oil.
Above is the view of the contents of the can of sprats from the top. In this particular can, the sprats’ heads are removed. However, I have seen the sprats canned with their heads included :)
You are supposed to eat the whole sprat. The canned sprats are very very soft, so even the heads, tails and fins taste the same as the rest of the sprat – you can’t tell what part of the sprat you are eating.
On this picture the sprats are on a tiny plate. Now you can see that the tails are included. But you can’t really taste the tails – the whole sprat tastes the same :)
So how do you eat sprats? Straight out of a can! :) Here are 3 different ways to eat sprats:
1) Sprats are great on top of the black rye bread
2) Sprats go really well with the side dish of mashed potatoes
3) You can mash the sprats with the fork and mix them with hot cooked pasta
If you are an adventurous eater, try the sprats! They might become your new pantry staple!
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I eat these all the time. Fortunately, I don’t need to go to a speciality store. Sprats are available at the regular grocery stores in Toronto. I’m very fortunate that Toronto’s grocery stores are so diverse. You can find just about anything.
I have never heard of sprats. I’m not sure we can get them here in Australia. They look like sardines. Do they taste the same?
Sprats taste different from sardines.
Sprats are new to me, too, but I love sardines…and would be happy to sample some sprats to compare :)
I never knew what a sprat was! Thanks for the info.
Considering how much I enjoy sardines and anchovies, I think I’d be a big fan of sprats! Keep thinking of the Jack Spratt ditty though :P
They look very much like the sardines (canned and bottled) they sell here (in Manila) and we also have smoked versions…I am sure they are delicious! :)
Ive never come across sprats before. But i like your very clear instruction on how to eat them. Straight out of the can of course! lol
Sprats are new to my foodie mind. I am not sure, I would like them. To be fair, I should get them and taste them. Thanks for teaching me something new.
My husband enjoys sardines, so he probably would sprats. I have never seen or heard of these-thanks for the informative post!
I would love to try them too.
I’ve never heard of sprats before so I am intrigued. I do love sardines and I would probably like these too!
I haven’t had a sprat, but it’s fun to learn about them. My husband would like them I’m sure. I just think that picture of you holding the pizza is the cutest.
-Gina-
Recently discovered Sprats at an ethnic market. They are delightful. Tinier than sardines, usually smoked and tastier than sardines. So, I am a big fan of these tiny adorable herrings.
I have eaten sprats for years. I remove the head, cover in flour and shallow fry for three minutes each side, serve with mashed potatos and peas.