Mackerel in spicy sauce

Mackerel in Spicy Sauce: a Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

In search of a delicious and healthy recipe, nothing compares to freshly cooked mackerel, enveloped in spicy flavors and served alongside vegetables. Today's recipe is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize fresh ingredients and flavor combinations, making it perfect for a weekend dinner or a festive meal. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the omega-3 rich fish and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients Needed

- 2 mackerel fish (approximately 400-500 g each)
- 1 egg
- 10 tablespoons of flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 small red chili pepper (ideally malaguetta for an intense flavor)
- 1 green bell pepper
- 8-10 tablespoons of tomato paste (preferably homemade, from ripe tomatoes, with oil and pepper)
- 1 thin stalk of young leek
- 1 carrot
- 1 lemon (for marinating)

Preparing the Mackerel

1. Cleaning the fish: Start by cleaning the two mackerel. Remove the intestines, wash them well under cold water, and cut off the heads and backbone. This step is essential to ensure the fish will have a fresh and clean taste.

2. Marinating: In a non-metal bowl, add a few tablespoons of oil, salt, pepper, dried thyme, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and leek rings. Place the mackerel in the marinade, making sure it is well covered. Let it chill for at least half an hour - this step will enhance the fish's flavor and make the meat more tender.

Preparing the Vegetables

3. Boiling the vegetables: Meanwhile, clean the carrot and leek stalk, cutting them to the same length. Boil them in salted water until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked. These will be the delicious filling for the mackerel.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: Finely chop the remaining leek, green pepper, and chili pepper. In a pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil and add the chopped vegetables, except for the chili pepper (we will add it at the end). Sauté until they become soft, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Adding the tomato paste: Once the vegetables have softened, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let it cook for a maximum of one minute, stirring constantly. Finally, add the dried thyme and turn off the heat.

Filling and Frying the Mackerel

6. The filling: Remove the mackerel from the marinade and place the boiled carrot in the center of the fillet, cut lengthwise. Place the leek stalk in the center of the carrot. Wrap the fillet tightly, ensuring that the filling does not escape. You can use toothpicks or string to secure the edge.

7. Breading the mackerel: Roll the mackerel log in flour, then in beaten egg, and again in flour. This crust will help achieve a crispy exterior.

8. Frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the mackerel roll on all sides until golden. Choose to fry slowly to ensure the fish cooks evenly.

9. Serving: Once the roll is ready, remove the toothpicks or string and cut it into slices of about 2-3 cm. Serve it alongside the previously prepared spicy sauce and garnish with slices of chili pepper and leek. You can also add a slice of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Tips and Variations

- Sauce: If you want to add an extra sauce, you can prepare a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill, which pairs perfectly with the fish.
- Variations: Instead of leek, you can use onion or zucchini for the filling. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh vegetable salad or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Benefits

Mackerel is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. It also contains high-quality proteins, B vitamins, and essential minerals. The added vegetables not only enrich the flavor but also provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another fish? Yes, the recipe also works with other types of fish, such as herring or sardines.
- How can I store the dish? Fried mackerel can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- Is the recipe suitable for vegans? Although the recipe is fish-based, a vegan version could include tofu or stuffed vegetables cooked in the same way.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This spicy mackerel recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of sophistication to your meal. Enjoy!