Baked Mullet

Delicious Baked Mackerel Recipe: An Unforgettable Experience

Total preparation time: 24 hours + 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Baked mackerel is a traditional recipe that evokes family meals filled with stories and smiles. This flavorful fish, with its delicate taste and firm texture, can be easily prepared at home, turning every meal into a celebration.

Before we begin, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients and familiarize ourselves with some helpful tips.

Ingredients:

- 2 mackerels (preferably fresh, but frozen can also be used)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 5-6 allspice berries
- 2-3 slices of lemon
- Sea salt (for marinating)
- 2 sheets of aluminum foil (for baking)

Nutritional information:

Mackerel is an excellent source of protein, omega-3, and essential vitamins, being a healthy food that contributes to a balanced diet. A serving of baked mackerel contains approximately 250 calories, making it a good choice for those who want a tasty yet healthy dish.

Preparing the fish:

Step 1: Marinating

1. Cleaning the mackerels: If the fish is frozen, no problem! You can clean the mackerels even when they are slightly frozen. Wash them well under cold running water and, using a sharp knife, remove the intestines and scales.

2. Salting: Place the mackerels in a bowl and sprinkle sea salt both on the outside and inside the belly. This step is essential as salting will help enhance the fish's flavor and improve its texture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the fish sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours or at least overnight.

Step 2: Preparing for baking

1. Rinsing the mackerels: The next day, take the mackerels out of the refrigerator and rinse them well under cold running water to remove excess salt. Make sure they are well rinsed to avoid being too salty.

2. Filling: In each mackerel, place a few sliced garlic cloves, 1-2 allspice berries, a bay leaf, and a few slices of lemon. These ingredients will add delicious flavors as the fish bakes.

Step 3: Baking

1. Wrapping in aluminum foil: Wrap each mackerel in aluminum foil, ensuring they are well sealed to keep the juices and flavors inside.

2. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the mackerels in a baking tray and bake them for 15-20 minutes. Covered with foil, they will cook evenly and remain juicy.

3. Finishing: After the initial 20 minutes, take the tray out of the oven and remove the aluminum foil. Let the mackerels bake for another 10 minutes to achieve a slightly crispy crust, which will add a pleasant texture to the dish.

Serving:

Once baked, let the mackerels cool slightly. You can slice the fish and serve it alongside cold polenta and crushed onion. This combination provides a perfect contrast between the intense flavors of the fish and the sweetness of the polenta, turning every bite into an unforgettable experience.

Helpful tip:

For a touch of originality, you can add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, on top of the fish before serving. These will not only beautify the plate but also add a fresh aroma.

Possible variations:

- Mackerel with vegetables: You can add thin slices of zucchini or tomatoes inside the mackerels for extra flavor and a different texture.
- Spiced: Experiment with different spices, such as turmeric or paprika, for a more intense flavor and color.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another fish? Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for other types of fish, such as mackerel or trout.

- What side dish pairs best? Besides polenta, you can also opt for a fresh vegetable salad or boiled potatoes.

- Can baked mackerel be frozen? It is recommended to consume the mackerel fresh to preserve its taste and texture, but you can freeze leftovers, ensuring they are well packaged.

I hope this baked mackerel recipe inspires you to experiment in the kitchen and share delicious moments with your loved ones. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process! Bon appétit!