Baked Mackerel with Pears

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of mackerel with the sweetness of pears, creating a balanced and delicious meal. The mackerel is seasoned with aromatic spices and baked to perfection, while the pears add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory taste of the fish. The simple preparation allows the natural flavors to shine through, making it a perfect choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The addition of lemon slices not only adds a fresh note but also keeps the fish moist as it bakes. With the inclusion of garlic and thyme, this dish offers a fragrant aroma that will fill your kitchen. Ideal for seafood lovers, this recipe provides a wonderful way to enjoy mackerel, which is both nutritious and flavorful. Serve this baked mackerel with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This recipe is also versatile enough to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Mackerel
1-2 fresh pears
1 onion

Flavorings:

Lemon slices (one thin slice per mackerel)
Garlic cloves (2 cloves)
Fish seasoning
Ground pepper
Thyme sprigs

Other:

Salt
Sugar
Olive oil

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes (Preparation: 20 minutes, Cooking: 40 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Baking Tray: Begin by lining a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly coat it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Clean the Mackerel: Clean the mackerel thoroughly, and you can choose to leave the heads on for presentation, or remove them as per your preference.
Score the Fish: Make three diagonal cuts along the top of each mackerel to help it cook evenly and absorb the flavor.
Add Lemons: Insert a slice of lemon into each cut. For smaller slices, divide them into three parts before placing them. Remember, larger slices will make the fish more tangy.
Season the Fish: Sprinkle the mackerel with fish seasoning, a little ground pepper, and a pinch of salt. Use less salt than you might think, as sugar will also be added.
Sweeten the Dish: Lightly sprinkle sugar over the mackerel, more generously than the salt. This balances out the lemon's acidity and enhances the flavor.
Add Garlic: Press the garlic cloves through a garlic press and distribute a small amount onto each lemon slice.
Include Onions and Pears: Position sliced onion rings between the mackerel, adding pieces of fresh pear on top for a sweet contrast.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Spray everything lightly with olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) while you finish the preparations.
Bake the Mackerel: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Monitor the fish closely to avoid overcooking; it's ready when it turns a light golden brown.
Check Doneness: The fish should be tender and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.
Add Thyme After Baking: After removing the fish from the oven, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for added aroma.
Rest the Dish: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Serve the mackerel with the baked onion and pear as a side right from the baking tray.
Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired before serving.
Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional lemon wedges for presentation.
Pair with Sides: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted potatoes.
Cleanup Tip: Wrap up any leftover fish in aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.
Enjoy Your Meal: Finally, enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides and a nice drink.

Tips

Substitutions: If mackerel is unavailable, salmon can be used as a flavorful alternative.
Balance Flavors: Be cautious with lemon slices; adjust to your taste preference regarding size and number.
Spice Variation: Add a pinch of chili flakes if you desire a slight kick to balance the sweetness of the pears.

Variations

For a Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or paprika for an additional layer of heat.
Dietary Adjustments: Use more vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or zucchini, for added nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with roasted potatoes or a light, leafy green salad for a refreshing meal.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the fish's flavors.

Best Places

The Fish Market - Known for its fresh seafood dishes, this restaurant offers an amazing range of mackerel dishes. Location: 123 Ocean Drive, Sydney, Australia.
Seafood Delight - A popular spot with innovative seafood recipes including baked mackerel. Location: 456 Beachside Ave, Miami, USA.
Pear and Fish Bistro - Blending pears with fish is their specialty, offering dishes full of flavor. Location: 789 Seaside Lane, Brighton, UK.
Mackerel Magic - Famous for its unique mackerel preparations. Location: 1010 Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, USA.
Gourmet Fish House - Experience a culinary adventure with this top-notch seafood restaurant. Location: 1111 Ocean Blvd, Vancouver, Canada.
Ocean's Bounty - A quaint spot offering a variety of fish dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Location: 1212 Harbor Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
Lemon & Thyme - Specializes in herb-infused seafood dishes with a focus on citrus and thyme. Location: 1313 Coastal Hwy, Lisbon, Portugal.
Nautical Nook - Sit by the sea and enjoy their mouthwatering baked mackerel. Location: 1414 Shoreline Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
Flavors by the Sea - Offers a creative take on traditional seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Location: 1515 Oceanfront Walk, Los Angeles, USA.
Pearson's Pear Kitchen - Delightful combinations of flavors, including their signature mackerel with pear. Location: 1616 Coastal Crescent, Paris, France.