Mackerel stew

Mackerel Ostropel – a delicious recipe, full of flavor and health. This is a dish that combines the rich flavors of fish with the sweetness of tomatoes and spices, offering a result that not only delights your taste buds but also brings a touch of joy to every meal. Over time, ostropel has been appreciated as an accessible yet refined dish, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

Your ingredients will be:
- 2 pieces of fresh mackerel (or frozen, if you prefer)
- 1 cup of tomato juice (choose a quality juice, preferably without additives)
- 1 red onion (this adds natural sweetness)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for an intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon of Italian herb mix (for a complex aroma)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for a rich flavor)

Preparing mackerel ostropel is a pleasant experience, and I will be with you every step of the way.

Step 1: Preparing the sauce
In a medium bowl, add the tomato juice, diced onion, and sliced garlic. Also, add thyme, the Italian herb mix, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a uniform sauce. This sauce will be the base of your dish and will add a special flavor to the mackerel.

Step 2: Preparing the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil to grease the bottom. This step will help prevent the fish from sticking and will contribute to even browning.

Step 3: Assembling the dish
Pour the prepared sauce into the baking dish, ensuring that the bottom is evenly covered. Then, carefully place the pieces of mackerel on top of the sauce. Cover the fish with the remaining sauce, so the flavors infuse into each fillet of fish.

Step 4: Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 15 minutes. After this interval, carefully turn the pieces of mackerel to brown evenly and let it bake for another 15 minutes. You will notice how the fish becomes tender and juicy, and the sauce thickens, creating a delicious combination.

Step 5: Serving
When the mackerel ostropel is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it with warm polenta and a garlic sauce made from yogurt, mayonnaise, or sour cream mixed with crushed garlic. A healthy alternative would be a side of steamed vegetables, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the main dish.

Useful tips:
- If using frozen mackerel, make sure it is completely thawed before preparation. You can leave it at room temperature for a few hours or thaw it in cold water.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as red bell peppers or zucchini, to the tomato sauce to enrich the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add chili flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Mackerel is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. It also contains high-quality proteins and B vitamins, essential for metabolism. The tomato sauce provides an intake of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to skin health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can also use other types of white fish, such as sea bream or trout, but the baking time may vary.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Mackerel ostropel keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent options that will complement the flavors of the food.

Remember, every meal cooked with love brings a touch of happiness to the soul. I wish you good luck in cooking and enjoy your meal! Savor the mackerel ostropel with your loved ones, sharing unforgettable moments!