Delicious Mackerel in Herb Oil

This tasty recipe highlights the delightful flavors of mackerel, a nutritious and flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and spices. In this dish, mackerel is combined with onions and carrots and seasoned with bay leaves and a mix of peppercorns to bring out its natural taste. The fish and vegetables are layered in jars and lightly salted and sweetened before being topped with a touch of vegetable oil. By slowly cooking it in the oven, the mackerel develops a tender texture and enriched flavor that makes it perfect as a standalone dish or part of a larger meal. This recipe is a beautiful representation of how simple ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying dish. It's easy to prepare and versatile, ideal for those who appreciate delightful yet straightforward seafood dishes. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this mackerel recipe is sure to be a hit with those seeking both flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 medium mackerels, cleaned and cut into 3 cm pieces
3 small onions
3 medium carrots, grated
3 small bay leaves

Spices

12 black peppercorns
3 allspice berries
A pinch of salt for each 0.5-liter jar
A pinch of sugar for each 0.5-liter jar

Sauces

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Preparation Time

Total time: 80 minutes (20 minutes prep, 60 minutes cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preparing your jars, preferably 500 ml each. For each jar, you will need one mackerel.
Clean, wash, and cut each mackerel into approximately 3 cm pieces.
Slice the onions into thin strips.
Grate the carrots using a coarse grater for a more textured finish.
Place one small bay leaf in each jar.
Add 4 black peppercorns and one allspice berry to each jar.
Begin layering. Start with a few pieces of fish at the bottom of the jar.
Add a layer of sliced onions over the fish.
Follow with a layer of grated carrots.
Continue layering fish, onions, and carrots until the jar is filled.
Finish with a sprinkle of salt and sugar over the top of each jar.
Pour one tablespoon of vegetable oil on top of each layered mixture.
Cover each jar with a piece of foil instead of a traditional lid.
Place the jars in a cold oven to ensure slow and even cooking.
Set the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
Cook the jars in the oven for one hour.
After an hour, remove the jars from the oven carefully to prevent burns.
Allow them to cool slightly before opening them.
The mackerel is ready to be served warm or stored for later use.
Enjoy your delicious creation with family or friends!

Tips

Modify the seasoning: Feel free to add chili flakes if you prefer a bit of spice.
Oil type: Substitute the vegetable oil with olive oil for a richer taste.
Serving time: It's delicious both warm and cold, depending on your preference.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Protein: 20g
Fats: 18g
Carbohydrates: 5g

Variations

For a lower-sodium version, reduce the salt or use a salt substitute.
Swap mackerel for another firm fish like sardines or salmon if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread for a more fulfilling meal.
Pair it with a fresh salad to enhance the healthy aspect of the dish.
Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for extra flavor.

Best Places

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