Air Fryer Mackerel

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and low in oil: Air frying uses significantly less oil compared to deep frying.

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep time and cooking time make this perfect for busy days.

• Rich flavor: The seasoning infuses the mackerel, making every bite delicious.

• Affordable: Mackerel is a budget-friendly fish with great nutritional value.

• Crispy texture: The air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the fish tender inside.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 whole mackerel (scaled, gutted, and cut into slices) or 4 mackerel fillets

• 1 tablespoon ginger and garlic paste

• 1 tablespoon bouillon (optional)

• 1 teaspoon curry powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon white pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (high smoke point oil preferred)

Directions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine all seasonings, herbs, oil, and lemon juice. Mix well to create the marinade.

3. Marinate the Mackerel: Coat the mackerel with the marinade using your fingers or a brush. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes (up to 2-3 hours for deeper flavor).

4. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the marinated mackerel pieces in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring none overlap.

5. Cook: Air fry the mackerel at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.

6. Serve: Remove from the Air Fryer, garnish if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–4 people

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.

• Different Fish: You can use other fish like tilapia or snapper in place of mackerel.

• Add Flavor: Use lime instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the Air Fryer for 5 minutes at 350°F, or microwave with a splash of water to prevent dryness.

FAQs

How long does mackerel take to cook in the Air Fryer?

Mackerel typically takes about 18–22 minutes to cook in the Air Fryer at 400°F.

Can I use fillets instead of whole mackerel?

Yes, mackerel fillets can be used; the cooking time may be shorter, around 15 minutes.

Can I marinate the mackerel overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavors, but 2–3 hours is usually sufficient.

What oil is best for air frying mackerel?

Use oil with a high smoke point, like avocado or grapeseed oil, for the best results.

Can I freeze cooked mackerel?

It’s not recommended to freeze cooked mackerel as it can affect its texture.

Can I add more spices?

Yes, feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference, or add some chili for extra heat.

Is mackerel a healthy fish?

Yes, mackerel is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice.

Can I cook mackerel without marinating it?

Yes, you can cook mackerel without marinating, but marinating adds more depth to the flavor.

Should I flip the fish during cooking?

Yes, flipping the mackerel halfway through ensures even cooking and crispiness.

Can I use other cooking methods?

Yes, you can bake or grill mackerel, but the Air Fryer creates the best crispy texture.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Mackerel is a healthy, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The Air Fryer makes cooking fish easier than ever, providing a crispy exterior and a tender inside with minimal oil. Give this recipe a try for a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone will love!