Baked mackerel

Delicious Baked Mackerel Recipe: A Perfect Combination of Flavors and Textures

I present to you a simple yet incredibly flavorful baked mackerel recipe that will turn any meal into a memorable feast. This recipe combines fresh fish with caramelized onions and aromatic herbs, making it not only delicious but also a healthy choice for the whole family. So, get ready to discover how to prepare the perfect baked mackerel, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of mackerel fillets (approximately 800g)
- 1 kg of white or red onion (preferably white for a sweeter taste)
- 50 ml of white wine (preferably dry)
- 50 ml of olive oil
- 1 lemon (for juice and garnish)
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried marjoram
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried rosemary
- 1-2 tablespoons of allspice (a very aromatic spice)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pickled bell pepper for garnish

Recipe History:
Baked mackerel is a classic dish that has evolved over time into various versions, each with its own charm. Fish is not only an excellent source of protein but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, with well-known health benefits. This recipe blends tradition with modernity, offering a delicious meal that evokes warm family gatherings.

Ingredient Preparation:
1. Start by preparing the fish. If you have cleaned mackerel fillets, make sure they are well dried with a paper towel. Otherwise, clean and gut the fish according to your preferences. You can ask the fishmonger for assistance to ensure everything is ready.
2. In a small bowl, squeeze the juice from one lemon and set aside the slices for garnish. If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, you can also add some grated lemon zest.
3. Chop the onion using a food processor or manually to achieve small cubes. This will give it a pleasant texture and release its sweetness during cooking.

Cooking Technique:
1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. It’s important not to let it brown, but just to become translucent and release its aromas.
2. Add the white wine over the onion and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, until the alcohol has evaporated. This step will add a sophisticated flavor to your dish.
3. Season the onion with salt, pepper, marjoram, rosemary, and allspice, mixing well to combine the flavors.
4. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
5. In a baking dish, pour a tablespoon of oil on the bottom, then lay down an even layer of sautéed onions. Place a layer of mackerel fillets on top, ensuring the skin side is down. Continue with another layer of onions and repeat the process until you finish the ingredients.
6. Drizzle everything with lemon juice and decorate with lemon slices and strips of pickled bell pepper on top.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the fish to cook evenly.
8. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and leave it for a few more minutes to achieve a slightly crispy crust.

Serving:
Once the mackerel is ready, let it cool slightly before serving. This recipe is perfect to be served warm, alongside a side of rice or steamed vegetables. Additionally, a fresh salad will perfectly complement this meal.

Useful Tips:
- You can adapt the recipe using other types of fish, such as trout or salmon, which pair very well with the onion and herb combination.
- If you enjoy stronger flavors, add a few chopped garlic cloves to the skillet along with the onion.
- For an even more sophisticated taste, you can add a bit of butter to the skillet when you add the wine.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What type of wine should I choose for this recipe?
A dry white wine is ideal, but you can also use a rosé, depending on your preferences.
2. How can I store leftover mackerel?
You can keep the mackerel in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
3. What side dishes pair best?
A simple side of baked potatoes or a green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers are excellent options.

This baked mackerel recipe is not only easy to prepare but will also bring a touch of joy to your table. Enjoy every bite and cherish your time spent in the kitchen!