Introducing 10 Creative and Delicious Mackerel Recipes to Spice Up Your Meals
Mackerel, a small oily fish that packs a punch in terms of nutrition, is not just beneficial for our health but also makes for delicious recipes. It contains healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals such as Omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep the heart and brain healthy. Here are ten creative and mouthwatering mackerel dishes to spice up your meals and introduce a delightful twist in your cooking repertoire.
1. Mackerel Ceviche with Mango Salsa
This colorful and refreshing dish combines the flavors of sweet mangoes, tangy citrus fruits, and spicy chili flakes for a delightful fusion. Marinate raw fish cubes in fresh lime juice and let them “cook” in the acidic environment before serving with mango salsa on top for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, lime juice (from 1-2 limes), salt, cayenne pepper, 1 ripe mango, ½ red onion, 1 jalapeño pepper, chili flakes, coriander leaves, extra virgin olive oil
Method: Cut the mackerel into cubes and add them to a bowl with lime juice, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cover and place in the fridge for about 15 minutes or until the fish is “cooked.” Meanwhile, prepare the salsa by mixing diced mango, finely chopped red onion, thinly sliced jalapeño pepper, chili flakes to taste, a handful of coriander leaves, and extra virgin olive oil in a separate bowl. Drain the ceviche before combining it with the prepared salsa just prior to serving.
2. Spicy Mackerel Fritters
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for those who enjoy their fish with a bit of spice. The crispy exterior and tender interior make for an irresistible snack or appetizer.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, plain flour, cornflour, egg, salt, pepper, red chili flakes, cooking oil, lemon wedges
Method: First, season the mackerel fillets with salt and pepper. Then, mix the plain flour, cornflour, red chili flakes, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk an egg until it’s frothy. Dip each fillet in the egg mixture before coating them well with the prepared flour mixture. Heat oil in a pan and fry the fillets on medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish.
3. Smoked Mackerel Pasta
This quick, creamy pasta dish incorporates the rich smokiness of smoked mackerel, making it a perfect match for your favorite type of pasta and a variety of other ingredients. You can even customize this recipe according to your personal taste.
Ingredients: Smoked mackerel fillets, cooked pasta (preferably penne), double cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, cherry tomatoes, arugula leaves, olive oil, black pepper
Method: While the pasta is cooking according to the package instructions, sauté chopped garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add chopped cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for about 3 minutes or until they’re softened slightly. Remove from heat and mix in arugula leaves. Drain the pasta but reserve some of its cooking water. In a separate bowl, flake smoked mackerel fillets into small chunks. Add double cream to the fish mixture and mix well. Then, combine the sauce with cooked pasta, tomato-arugula mixture, and Parmesan cheese to taste. Season with black pepper if desired before serving.
4. Mackerel Tartare
This delectable raw mackerel tartare dish combines the freshness of fish, rich avocado, and the zing of lemon juice for a refreshing starter or appetizer. It’s best served with crusty bread as a base for spreading or scooping up the delicious mixture.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, ripe avocado, red onion, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley), crusty bread
Method: Dice mackerel and avocado into small cubes and finely chop red onion. In a bowl, mix the diced ingredients with lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving it alongside crusty bread for dipping or spreading purposes.
5. Mackerel and Potato Chowder
This hearty, creamy chowder is perfect for a light meal or a comforting lunch. The combination of smoked mackerel, potatoes, and aromatic vegetables creates an irresistible soup with a unique twist.
Ingredients: Smoked mackerel fillets, peeled potatoes, onion, carrot, celery stalk, garlic, vegetable or chicken stock, double cream, fresh thyme leaves, black pepper
Method: Dice the smoked mackerel and set aside. Peel and dice potatoes into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in a bit of olive oil until softened. Add diced potatoes, vegetable or chicken stock, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through. Then, add smoked mackerel flakes and simmer for another minute before stirring in double cream. Remove from heat, season with fresh thyme leaves and black pepper, and serve piping hot.
6. Mackerel and Tomato Salad
This light and refreshing salad is packed with flavorful ingredients such as mackerel, tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese. It’s perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or an easy dinner.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, black pepper
Method: Marinate the mackerel fillets in a mixture of lemon juice, salt, and pepper while preparing the remaining ingredients. Cut cherry tomatoes into halves, slice cucumber, and finely chop red onion. In a serving dish, arrange sliced cucumber, cherry tomato halves, and cubed mackerel fillets in layers. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the fish and top with the chopped red onions. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice before seasoning with black pepper to taste.
7. Grilled Mackerel Kebabs
This delightful grilling recipe transforms mackerel into an enticing skewer packed with zesty flavors. It’s the perfect dish for enjoying during the warmer months, or whenever you crave a barbecue.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, lemon wedges, olive oil, salt, pepper, mixed herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), skewers
Method: Prepare the mackerel by cutting it into bite-sized cubes and seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and a mix of your preferred herbs. Alternate between fish cubes, bell pepper slices, cherry tomatoes, and lemon wedges on skewers. Brush the prepared kebabs with olive oil before grilling over medium heat for about 10 minutes, flipping them regularly to ensure even cooking. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of accompaniment.
8. Mackerel Tacos
This Mexican-inspired dish is a great way to use mackerel fillets in a different context. The smoky flavors and fresh ingredients make for an exciting twist on the traditional taco recipe.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, lime wedges, cilantro leaves, sour cream, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper
Method: Marinate the mackerel fillets in a blend of lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, and seasoning to taste. Grill or pan-fry the fish until cooked through and flaky. Heat corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Top each tortilla with shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, grilled mackerel fillets, and a drizzle of sour cream. Garnish with cilantro leaves and lime wedges before serving.
9. Mackerel and Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Sauce
This delicious and satisfying pasta dish combines the richness of mackerel, the nuttiness of broccoli, and a garlicky cream sauce for an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients: Mackerel fillets, cooked pasta (preferably penne), blanched broccoli florets, garlic, butter, double cream, salt, black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese
Method: While the pasta is cooking according to the package instructions, cook the mackerel fillets until they are almost done. Sauté chopped garlic in melted butter until fragrant. Add the blanched broccoli florets and sauté for another 2-3 minutes or until tender. Stir in double cream and let it simmer for a minute to thicken slightly. Add the cooked mackerel fillets to the sauce, stirring well to combine, before adding salt and pepper according to taste. Drain the pasta and toss with the mackerel and broccoli mixture, finishing off by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving.
10. Mackerel Sandwiches
For a quick and easy lunch or snack, mackerel works perfectly in sandwiches when combined with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado.
Ingredients: Bread of choice (preferably whole wheat), mayonnaise, sliced mackerel fillets, sliced ripe tomatoes, shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced avocados, salt, black pepper
Method: Toast or grill the bread to your liking. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on both sides and add mackerel fillets onto one slice. Top with tomato slices, shredded lettuce, and avocado slices before closing the sandwich. Season the inside with salt and black pepper to taste and serve immediately.
With these delicious and creative mackerel recipes at your disposal, you’ll never run out of exciting ways to incorporate this healthy fish into your meals. From appetizers to main courses and everything in between, there’s something here for every occasion.