Sprat

The sprat (Sprattus sprattus) is a small, oily sea fish belonging to the herring family, commonly found in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Its flesh is fatty and distinctly aromatic, making it excellent for pickling, smoking and canning. It is most often sold as smoked or marinated tinned fish, particularly popular in northern and eastern Europe. In the kitchen it works well on bread as a spread, in salads, warm starters or as part of fish platters. Thanks to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and calcium, it is a nutritionally valuable food. Its small size means it can be eaten bones and all.