Packages with smoked fish

Delicious Baked Mackerel Recipe in Vegetable Packets

Are you dreaming of a healthy and flavorful dinner? I invite you to explore this simple and quick baked mackerel recipe, wrapped with fresh vegetables, that will bring a touch of freshness to your table. Preparing this recipe is a true culinary art, from selecting the ingredients to the wrapping technique. I will provide you with all the necessary details to achieve a perfect result, along with some tricks and variations to delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 fresh mackerels
- 1 large potato
- 1 large onion
- 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Sweet or hot paprika, to preference
- A few sprigs of fresh thyme
- 4 teaspoons of olive oil

A bit of history:
Mackerel is a fish that enjoys particular popularity due to its delicate taste and high nutritional value. Today's dish, baked in packets, is a classic method to preserve the fish's juiciness and blend the flavors of the vegetables. This cooking technique has deep roots in culinary tradition, used by generations to maximize the flavor of the ingredients.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the fish:
Start by cleaning the mackerels. Make sure to wash them well under cold running water, then dry them with a clean towel. It is important to remove any moisture to achieve a crispy fish exterior.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
Peel the potato and slice it thinly, about 0.5 cm thick, so it cooks evenly. The onion, on the other hand, should be cut into larger slices to withstand baking and add a sweet flavor during cooking.

3. Preparing the aluminum foil:
Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil, enough to wrap each portion. Grease each piece of foil with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent the ingredients from sticking.

4. Assembling the packets:
On each piece of foil, place a few potato slices, followed by a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, to taste. Add the sliced onion and finally place the seasoned mackerel, making sure to insert a few slices of lemon inside the fish. The lemon will add a touch of acidity and enhance the flavor.

5. Wrapping and baking:
Carefully wrap each portion, ensuring the foil is tightly closed to keep the juices inside. Place the packets in a baking dish and put them in the preheated oven at 180°C for 45 minutes. The aroma will be delightful, and the fish will be perfectly cooked.

6. Serving:
Once the packets are ready, carefully remove them from the oven. Open each packet with caution to avoid the hot steam. You can serve the mackerel alongside a fresh green salad or with a side of basmati rice. An excellent accompaniment choice would also be a yogurt sauce with dill, which will perfectly balance the flavors of the fish.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with other herbs, such as parsley or basil, to vary the flavors.
- If you prefer a fattier fish, you can substitute mackerel with salmon or sardines.
- Ensure that all ingredients are fresh to achieve the best results.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish?
Certainly! Many types of white fish pair well with this recipe, such as cod or haddock.

- How can I adapt the recipe to make it spicier?
You can add a few slices of chili pepper or a spicy sauce for an extra kick.

- What drinks pair best with this dish?
A bottle of dry white wine or a light craft beer is the perfect choice to complement the flavors of this dish.

Preparing this baked mackerel in packets is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a satisfying experience. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!