Our Frozen Sprats, available in a convenient 1kg bag, are whole round, individually frozen fish wild caught in the North East Atlantic. Sprats are a member of the herring family (Sprattus sprattus) and have been a staple of British coastal cuisine for centuries. These small, silvery fish are prized for their rich, savoury flavour and impressive nutritional profile.
Each sprat is individually quick-frozen to lock in freshness, making them easy to portion out as needed. Their small size means they require very little preparation — simply defrost, toss in seasoned flour, and deep-fry or shallow-fry for just 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. They can also be grilled, baked, or smoked for a more delicate finish.
Sprats are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Enjoy them as a traditional British snack with lemon wedges, bread and butter, or serve them as part of a Mediterranean-style mezze alongside olives, hummus, and flatbread. They also work beautifully in Asian-inspired dishes — try them lightly battered in a tempura style with soy dipping sauce.
What it Tastes Like
- Flavour Profile: Sprats have a rich, savoury flavour with a subtle oiliness similar to sardines, but milder and more delicate.
- Texture: The flesh is soft and tender with fine, edible bones. When fried, the exterior becomes satisfyingly crisp while the inside stays moist.
- Experience: Each bite delivers a moreish combination of crispy coating and rich, oceanic flavour — perfect as a snack or starter.
Typical Nutritional Values
Sprats are one of the most nutrient-dense small fish available. Here’s what you get in each 100g serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Omega-3 | 1.3g |
| Calcium | 200mg |
| Vitamin D | 8µg |
Sprats are exceptionally high in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and brain function. Their edible bones provide an outstanding source of calcium, while their high vitamin D content supports bone health and immune function. A genuinely nutritious and affordable fish.
Species
Common Name: Sprat
Scientific Name: Sprattus sprattus
Origin
Sourced from: Wild caught, North East Atlantic
Quality and Sustainability
Freshness: Our sprats are individually quick-frozen at sea or shortly after landing to preserve their natural flavour and nutritional value.
Sustainability: Sprats are considered a sustainable seafood choice. They are fast-growing, short-lived fish with healthy population levels in the North East Atlantic.
FAQs
Q: How should I store Frozen Sprats?
A: Keep frozen at -18°C or below. Once defrosted, consume within 24 hours and do not refreeze.
Q: Do I need to gut sprats before cooking?
A: No. Sprats are small enough to eat whole, including the bones, which soften during cooking and are an excellent source of calcium.
Q: What is the best way to cook sprats?
A: Toss in seasoned flour and shallow-fry in hot oil for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. They can also be grilled or baked at 200°C for 8–10 minutes.
Q: Are sprats the same as whitebait?
A: They are related but not identical. Whitebait are juvenile herring or sprats, while the sprats we sell are mature fish, slightly larger with a fuller flavour.
