Oven-baked mullet on a bed of salt

Oven-baked Mackerel on a Bed of Salt

Who doesn't love the aroma of a freshly cooked fish, carefully prepared and served in a way that highlights its natural flavor? Today, I invite you to discover the delicious recipe for oven-baked mackerel on a bed of salt, a simple and effective method to prepare this tasty fish. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a healthy choice, packed with essential nutrients. Whether you want to impress friends at a dinner or treat yourself to a special lunch, oven-baked mackerel is the perfect solution.

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

Ingredients:
- 7 fresh mackerels (about 1 kg)
- 2 lemons
- Coarse salt (about 500 g, for the salt bed)

A bit of history:
Preparing fish on a bed of salt is a traditional technique that dates back to ancient times. This method not only enhances the flavor of the fish but also helps retain its juiciness, as the salt absorbs excess moisture and intensifies the flavors. It is a simple recipe that brightens up festive meals and more.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the mackerel: Start by cleaning the mackerels from scales. Use a special fish knife or a kitchen knife, being careful to remove all the scales. Then, gut the fish, ensuring that all the entrails are removed. This step is essential for achieving a clean and pleasant taste.

2. Washing: After cleaning and gutting the mackerels, wash them well under cold water. This step will help remove residues and maintain a fresh aroma. Let them drain well, and if necessary, you can use a paper towel to dry them.

3. Preparing the tray: In a baking tray, place a sheet of baking paper, covering the entire surface. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make cleaning easier later. Sprinkle a layer of coarse salt about 0.5 cm thick, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

4. Placing the fish: Place the prepared mackerels on the bed of salt, being careful not to overlap them. This arrangement will allow heat to circulate evenly around the fish, ensuring even cooking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180°C). Place the tray with mackerels in the oven and let them bake for 30 minutes. You will notice that the fish will turn white and acquire a juicy texture.

6. Serving: After baking, remove the tray from the oven. Use a spatula to carefully lift the mackerels from the salt bed. Serve them drizzled with lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions:
Oven-baked mackerel pairs perfectly with creamy polenta, baked potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Don't forget to add a garlic sauce, which will wonderfully complement the fish's flavor.

Tips and suggestions:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add some herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) between the fish and the salt bed.
- Make sure to use good quality coarse salt, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.
- You can experiment with different types of fish, adjusting the baking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Nutritional benefits:
Mackerel is an excellent source of high-quality protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for cardiovascular health. It also contains B vitamins, which help maintain the health of the nervous system and energy metabolism.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, this method works well with other types of fish, such as trout or salmon.
- How can I tell if the fish is cooked? The fish is done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Can I keep leftover mackerel? It is recommended to eat the fish fresh, but if there are leftovers, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to two days.

This recipe for oven-baked mackerel on a bed of salt is not only simple but also full of tradition and flavor. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!