Mackerel (Carapau) with tomato rice

Mackerel with Tomato Rice - a delicious and healthy recipe

Are you dreaming of a tasty dinner that is easy to prepare and will impress all your loved ones? Mackerel with tomato rice is the perfect choice! This ocean fish, with its juicy flesh and few bones, pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of tomato rice. Moreover, it is a recipe that combines culinary tradition with fresh ingredients, bringing a touch of innovation to your table. Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg mackerel (horse mackerel)
- Flour, for coating the fish
- Sunflower or olive oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
- 1 lemon, for serving
- 2 cups of rice (about 400 g)
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Fresh coriander, finely chopped
- Pepper, to taste
- Water (4 cups, for rice)

Preparation

1. Preparing the fish: Wash the mackerel well under a stream of cold water. Then, sprinkle salt over it and let it marinate for 3-4 hours. This step will enhance its flavor and make it tastier.

2. Frying the fish: After marinating, take the fish and coat it in flour, ensuring it is well covered. In a deep pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot enough, add the mackerel and fry on both sides until golden and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, place it on a plate covered with a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

3. Preparing the tomato rice: In a pot, add a few tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent and soft, then add the diced tomatoes. Let them soften for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the ingredients: Once the tomatoes have softened, add the tomato paste and mix well. Then, add the rice and stir again to combine the ingredients. Pour in the water (use the 2:4 rule - 2 cups of rice to 4 cups of water) and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Cooking the rice: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When the rice is ready, add the chopped fresh coriander and stir gently.

6. Serving: Place the tomato rice on plates and top with a few fried fish. Serve with lemon slices on the side to add a touch of freshness and acidity to the dish.

Practical tips

- Choosing the fish: When selecting mackerel, opt for fresh fish with shiny eyes and red gills. Avoid fish with a strong odor!
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian alternative, you can replace the fish with tofu fillets or fried vegetables, which pair perfectly with the tomato rice.
- Storing the rice: Tomato rice remains delicious the next day, so feel free to save it for a quick meal on busy days!
- Enhancing the flavor: For a more intense taste, you can add spices like cumin or paprika during the rice preparation.

Nutritional benefits

Mackerel is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. It is also rich in protein, making it an ideal choice for a balanced meal. Rice, on the other hand, provides complex carbohydrates that will give you the energy you need throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can substitute mackerel with another white fish, such as cod or tilapia, but the cooking time may vary.
- What side dish pairs best? A green salad or grilled vegetables are excellent sides that will complement the meal even better.
- Is this recipe suitable for diets? Yes, mackerel and rice are healthy options and can easily be integrated into balanced diets.

Delicious pairings

This mackerel with tomato rice recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a flavored iced tea. Additionally, a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers with olive oil and balsamic vinegar can add a fresh contrast to your meal.

In conclusion, mackerel with tomato rice is a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe that will surely become a favorite among your loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a party, this dish will always bring smiles to the faces of those who enjoy it. Don’t forget to put your personal touch on the recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!