The term you are referring to is “whitebait.” Whitebait is a term used to describe several small species of fish that have a delicate texture and are typically fried for only one or two minutes. The name is commonly used to refer to the young fry of herrings and sprats, although it can also be used to describe other small fish that are similarly prepared. Whitebait is a popular dish in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with access to fresh seafood.
These diminutive silver piscine creatures, offspring of the herring and sprat, grace our palates when rendered crispy through the alchemy of frying, complemented by the tangy essence of lemon. Imbued with the transformative power of fat, they bestow upon us a bountiful supply of energy, while the elusive vitamin D likely graces their composition in noteworthy measure. As we savor these morsels, bones and all, whitebait unveils itself as a superlative font of calcium, nourishing our bodies with this essential mineral. To fully relish their sublime flavors and reap their nutritional benefits, these aquatic delicacies demand our utmost devotion to freshness.