Marinated Mackerel in a Jar

Marinated Mackerel in a Jar - A Flavorful Delicacy

If you are looking for a simple yet exceptionally tasty recipe, marinated mackerel in a jar will surely delight you! This traditional recipe will not only please your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. Mackerel, a fish rich in omega-3 and protein, is ideal for a healthy and delicious meal. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 3 days
Total time: 3 days and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 kg salted mackerel
- 2 medium carrots
- 3 onions (preferably red, for a touch of sweetness)
- 300 ml vinegar (preferably wine vinegar)
- 600 ml water
- 10 black peppercorns
- 3 bay leaves
- 5 allspice berries (optional, for an extra hint of flavor)

Ingredient Details

- Mackerel: Choose fresh, quality mackerel for better taste. If using salted mackerel, make sure to soak it in water to reduce the saltiness.
- Carrots: These not only add a splash of color but also sweetness, balancing the salty taste of the fish.
- Onion: Red onion is sweeter and more aromatic, but you can also use white onion if you prefer a less sweet taste.
- Vinegar: Choose a good quality vinegar, preferably wine vinegar, for a more refined taste.
- Spices: The peppercorns and bay leaves add a deep and complex flavor, while allspice brings an exotic note.

Recipe History

Marinated mackerel is a recipe with deep roots in culinary traditions, popular among fish lovers from various corners of the world. It has often been prepared as a method of preserving fish, providing a practical solution to keep the fish fresh in times when refrigeration was not an option. Marinating not only helps preserve the fish but also enhances its flavor, transforming it into a perfect delicacy for festive meals or a quick snack.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cleaning and preparing the mackerel: Start by cleaning the mackerel thoroughly. Remove the head and the tip of the tail, then wash the fish under cold running water. Place it in a bowl of cold water and let it sit for 2 and a half hours. This process will help reduce the salt in the fish.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Clean the carrots and onions. Slice the onion into thin rings and the carrots into thin slices. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also a pleasant texture to the dish.

3. Preparing the marinade: In a pot, combine the vinegar and water. Add the peppercorns, bay leaves, and, if desired, the allspice. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 5-10 minutes, then let it cool. This marinade will enrich the mackerel with intense flavors.

4. Portioning the mackerel: After soaking, remove the mackerel and slice it into thin pieces. This will allow the marinade to penetrate the meat better.

5. Assembling the jar: In a clean, sterilized jar, add a layer of onion and carrot, followed by a layer of mackerel. Continue to alternate layers until you finish the ingredients. Make sure the last layer is onion and carrot to protect the fish.

6. Adding the marinade: Pour the cooled marinade over the mackerel, ensuring all ingredients are completely covered. Put the lid on the jar and refrigerate for 3 days. This waiting time is essential to allow the flavors to develop and penetrate the fish.

Practical Tips

- Refrigeration: Ensure the jar is tightly sealed and keep it in the refrigerator throughout the marinating process.
- Checking the taste: After 3 days, you can check the taste of the mackerel to ensure it is flavorful enough. If you prefer a stronger taste, you can let it sit for another day.
- Serving: Marinated mackerel can be served simply, alongside a slice of fresh bread or prepared as a salad, adding boiled potatoes or fresh vegetables. A great combination would also be with a green salad drizzled with lemon.

Variations and Serving

You can customize your recipe by adding other spices or vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers or olives. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, for a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can I keep marinated mackerel? It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, but it is best consumed within the first 5-7 days.
- Can I use fresh mackerel? Yes, but you will need to adjust the marinating process, as fresh mackerel does not require the same desalting time as salted mackerel.

Nutritional Benefits

Mackerel is an excellent source of high-quality protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health and optimal brain function. It also contains essential vitamins, such as B12 and D, and minerals like selenium, which help strengthen the immune system.

In conclusion, marinated mackerel in a jar is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that brings a touch of flavor to your life. Don't hesitate to try it and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!