Cold marinated mackerel

Delicious marinated fish recipe: Cold marinated mackerel

When it comes to fish, few dishes compare to a well-made marinated mackerel. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant memories from childhood when our grandparents prepared delicious preserves for winter. Moreover, marinated fish is an excellent choice for festive meals or for a healthy snack.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 1 week
Total time: 1 week and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 pieces of frozen mackerel (approx. 1.2 kg)
- 500 ml water
- 225 ml vinegar
- 100 ml vegetable oil
- 2 carrots
- 2 large onions
- 1 teaspoon whole pepper
- 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon pickling salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- salt for salting the fish

Preparation steps:

1. Thawing and preparing the fish: Start by allowing the fish to thaw completely. This can be done by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, remove the heads and clean the fish. Rinse it well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Cutting the fish: Cut the mackerel into slices about 2-3 cm thick. These will be easier to marinate and will absorb the flavors better. After cutting, let the slices drain in a sieve or on a kitchen towel to remove excess water.

3. Salting the fish: Sprinkle salt on the fish slices, ensuring they are well covered on all sides. Place them in a lidded container and leave them in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step is essential for achieving a firm texture and intense flavor.

4. Preparing the brine: In a pot, combine the water, vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, bay leaves, and whole pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, allowing it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the pot from heat and let the brine cool completely.

5. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the carrots and slice them into thin rounds. The onion is cut into rings for better integration into the marinated fish mixture.

6. Assembling the jar: In a sealed jar, layer the fish slices interspersed with the carrot and onion rounds. Add the mustard seeds for extra flavor. Finally, pour the cooled brine over, ensuring the liquid completely covers the fish and vegetables. Close the jar and place it in the refrigerator.

7. Waiting: Although it may seem hard to wait, it is important to let the fish marinate for a week. This time will allow the flavors to develop and penetrate the fish, resulting in a savory delicacy.

8. Serving: After a week, the marinated fish is ready to enjoy. It can be served as an appetizer, alongside fresh bread, or as part of a more complex meal. I recommend pairing it with a fresh salad for a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the fish: Make sure to choose fresh or high-quality fish for an excellent final result. Mackerel can be replaced with anchovies or sardines if you prefer a more flavorful option.
- Experiment with flavors: You can also add other spices, such as garlic or chili, to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Check the jar: Ensure that the jar is well sealed and that the brine completely covers the ingredients to prevent mold development.

Nutritional benefits:

Fish is an excellent source of omega-3, high-quality protein, and vitamin D. Regular fish consumption can support heart, brain, and joint health. Additionally, carrots add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can use other types of fish, such as herring or salmon. Each type will add a unique flavor to your dish.

2. Is marinating for a week necessary?
Yes, to achieve an intense flavor and pleasant texture, it is recommended to adhere to the marinating time.

3. How can I store the leftover fish?
The marinated fish keeps well in the refrigerator for a few weeks, as long as it is covered with brine.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices to accompany the marinated fish.

This cold marinated mackerel recipe is not just a way to enjoy fish deliciously, but also an opportunity to create beautiful moments around the table. Enjoy cooking and don't forget to savor every bite!

 Ingredients: 4 pieces of frozen mackerel (1.200 kg) 500 ml water 225 ml vinegar 100 ml oil 2 carrots 2 large onions 1 teaspoon whole pepper 2 teaspoons mustard seeds 2 bay leaves 1 tablespoon pickling salt 1 teaspoon sugar salt for salting the fish

 Tags:  cold marinated mackerel marinated mackerel recipe mackerel marinated fish vinegar carrots onion