Mackerel Fillets
Seafood·beginner

Mackerel Fillets

Yield
Prep
Total
2 fillets
5m
13m
gluten-freedairy-freeketowhole30dinnerlunchSpray SurfaceMeal-Prep

Mackerel's high fat content means it doesn't need added oil when air frying. The scoring prevents the skin from contracting too much. This page has the easy recipe, ingredients, and air frying instructions.

  • 2 mackerel fillets (skin-on)
  • Salt and your seasoning of choice
Pairs with Miso Ginger, Sesame Ginger, Citrus Pepper, or Lemon DillSee all seasonings →
  1. 01Pat the fillets dry.
  2. 02Score the skin lightly with 2 to 3 shallow cuts. This prevents the skin from curling as the fillet cooks.
  3. 03Season the flesh side. No oil needed because mackerel is a fatty fish with plenty of its own oil.
  4. 04Place skin-side up in the basket.
  5. 05Ready for the air fryer.
Mackerel is an oily, richly flavored fish. It doesn't need added oil because its high fat content bastes itself during cooking. The scoring on the skin is important because mackerel skin contracts aggressively when heated and curls the fillet into a C-shape if you don't release the tension. Three shallow cuts across the skin solves this.
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How to Air Fry It

Temp
Cook
Prep
Flip?
380°F
8m
5m
No
  1. 01Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. 02Pat fillets dry and score the skin lightly.
  3. 03Season the flesh side with the Miso Ginger or Sesame Ginger seasoning.
  4. 04Place fillets skin-side up in the air fryer basket.
  5. 05Cook for 8 minutes without flipping.
  6. 06Check that the skin is crispy and meat is opaque.
  7. 07Remove carefully and serve warm.

Lightly spray the basket or tray before cooking.

Recipe Notes

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Season it up

Pairs well

Meal Prep

Stores 2 days refrigerated. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 4-5 minutes. The high fat content helps it hold up well. Strong smell on reheat though.

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