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ROASTED WILD MACKEREL WITH BOLD SPICES – INSPIRED BY RICK STEIN

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
ROASTED WILD MACKEREL WITH BOLD SPICES – INSPIRED BY RICK STEIN

ROASTED WILD MACKEREL WITH BOLD SPICES – INSPIRED BY RICK STEIN

The moment I saw this fresh wild mackerel at Mega, dinner was decided. Inspired by Rick Stein’s recipe, this dish uses a bold spice blend to complement the rich, oily flavor of mackerel. Since mackerel is a fattier fish, a light side like a simple lemon-dressed salad or steamed vegetables pairs perfectly. Rick suggests a tomato, onion, and mint salad for a refreshing balance.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min

🍳 Cook Time: 30 min
🍰 Yields: 2 servings
🔥 Calories: Approx. 550 per fish

🥄 Ingredients

  • 2 whole mackerel (about 300 g each; heads removed and cleaned inside if preferred)
  • 1/2 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes
  • 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 heaping tsp mustard
  • 35 g butter
  • 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • A little oil (about 1 tsp)
  • Salt, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 🧻 Pat the fish dry thoroughly with paper towels. Score diagonal shallow cuts on one side of each fish, spaced closely but without cutting into the bones—this helps cook faster and allows spices to penetrate.
  2. 🛢️ Rub a teaspoon of oil lightly over the fish to help the spices adhere.
  3. 🧂 Season the fish inside and out generously with salt.
  4. 🌿 Crush coriander and black peppercorns together in a mortar and pestle. Sprinkle evenly over the fish, including inside the scored cuts.
  5. 🌶️ Add chili flakes, massaging all spices well into the fish and scoring.
  6. 🔥 Place fish in a roomy ovenproof dish with the scored side up. Roast at 190°C (375°F) for 15 minutes using the grill or top heat if available.
  7. 🧈 Meanwhile, melt butter in a small pan. Whisk in mustard, red wine vinegar, and sweet paprika until smooth. Stir in chopped parsley last.
  8. ⏲️ After 15 minutes, remove fish from oven and generously brush the butter mixture all over. Return to oven for another 10 minutes. Check doneness (fish should flake easily).
  9. 🔥 Turn on the grill and place fish under it for 2-3 minutes until skin crisps up. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  10. 🧈 Remove fish and brush again with remaining butter sauce. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges. Reheats beautifully and retains flavor.

💡 Tips

  • Score the fish carefully to avoid cutting bones but allow spices in.
  • Use good quality butter and fresh parsley for vibrant flavor.
  • Light, acidic sides complement the richness of mackerel perfectly.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Quick yet elegant seafood dinners
  • Flavorful, bold fish dishes
  • Pairing with light salads or steamed vegetables

📝 Final Thoughts

This roasted wild mackerel recipe brings out the best in this flavorful fish with a robust spice blend and a luscious buttery sauce. Easy to prepare yet impressive on the plate, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic seafood favorite with a gourmet twist.