Smelt Mayonnaise

Directions

1. 1
   In a shallow bowl, mix the flour with a pinch each of salt and pepper.
2. 2
   In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg yolk until blended.
3. 3
   Soak the smelt, 4 or 5 at a time, in the milk mixture for a couple of minutes and then coat them with the flour mixture.
4. 4
   Set aside on a plate.
5. 5
   Wash the parsley and thoroughly pat it dry.
6. 6
   Pour the oil to a depth of 3 inches/ 7.5 cm (or according to the manufacturers instructions) into your deep fryer or a deep saute pan and heat to 350F (180C).
7. 7
   Add the parsley and fry until crisp, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
8. 8
   Drain on paper towels.
9. 9
   Working in batches, fry the smelt for 4 to 5 minutes, or until golden.
10. 10
    Drain briefly on paper towels, patting the smelt dry.
11. 11
    Serve the smelt with the deep-fried parsley, mayonnaise, and lemon wedges.