Mackerel in tomato sauce

Mackerel in Tomato Sauce - A Delicious Recipe for a Memorable Meal

If you are looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe, mackerel in tomato sauce is the perfect choice. This dish, with its enticing aromas and varied textures, will transform your meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely be appreciated. Let's dive into the cooking process!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 2 large mackerel (approximately 1 kg)
- 2 large onions
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 cup of white wine (preferably dry)
- 1 cup of water
- Tomato paste to taste (approximately 200g)
- 4 slices of lemon
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Peppercorns (black or white)
- Fish spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika)
- 1/2 cup of flour
- 1/4 cup of oil for frying
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Preparation

1. Preparing the fish: Start by washing the mackerel well under cold running water. Then, cut it into thick slices about two fingers wide. This will help with even cooking and keep the meat juicy. Use a paper towel to dry the fish slices to remove excess water. Then, season them with salt, pepper, and fish spices according to your preferences.

2. Preparing the flour: Place the flour in a bowl and coat the mackerel slices in it, shaking off the excess. This will help create a slightly crispy crust when frying.

3. Frying the fish: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the mackerel slices. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the fish to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

4. Preparing the sauce: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and sauté until golden. Then, add the peeled and sliced garlic, continuing to sauté for another minute until the garlic releases its aroma.

5. Adding the liquid ingredients: Dissolve the tomato paste in the wine mixed with water. Pour this mixture over the onion and garlic, stirring well to combine the flavors. This sauce will give a rich and deep taste to your dish.

6. Assembling the dish: Add the lemon slices, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the pan. Then, carefully place the mackerel slices so they do not break apart. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce begins to boil.

7. Baking in the oven: Transfer everything to a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes. During this time, the fish will infuse with the flavors of the sauce, and the meat will become extremely tender.

8. Finishing and serving: After the baking time is over, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve this delicacy warm, accompanied by polenta or fresh bread to savor the delicious sauce.

Practical tips

- Choosing the fish: When selecting mackerel, look for fresh specimens with firm flesh and a sea smell. Frozen fish can be used, but make sure it is fully thawed before preparation.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of fish, such as herring or sprat, which pair very well in tomato sauce. You can also add green or black olives for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer. You can also add a fresh green salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutritional information

Mackerel is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. It is also rich in protein and B vitamins, making it a nutritious choice. A serving of mackerel in tomato sauce has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the side dishes.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned tomato sauce? Yes, canned tomato sauce can be used as a base, but make sure to choose one without additives or added sugars.
- How can I tell if the fish is cooked? The fish is cooked when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and fry the fish a few hours ahead, then assemble and bake before serving.

Enjoy this recipe for mackerel in tomato sauce and don’t forget to share your experience with friends! Every meal is an opportunity to create beautiful memories, and this dish will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 2 large mackerels, 2 large onions, 2 heads of garlic, 1 cup of wine, 1 cup of water, tomato paste to taste, 4 slices of lemon, bay leaves, peppercorns, fish spices, fresh parsley, flour

 Tags:  mackerel