What’s the Best Fish to Cook on a Budget?

When it comes to cooking on a budget, salmon is often the go-to option. However, mackerel and sardines are equally fantastic choices for budget-friendly cooking. While canned versions are available at lower prices, nothing beats the flavorful experience of buying fresh fish from the local fishmonger.

If you’re craving more fish inspiration, try these roasted fresh sardines, stuffed with breadcrumbs, lemon, and garlic. They capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine beautifully!

Choosing the Best Mackerel Fillets

When selecting mackerel fillets for this recipe, look for fresh, firm fillets that have a shiny surface and a mild aroma. Avoid any fillets showing signs of discoloration or a strong fishy odor, as these are indicators of freshness and quality. If possible, choose sustainably sourced fillets to support eco-friendly fishing practices.

Quality ingredients directly influence the final outcome of your dishes. Even those who typically shy away from white fish may find themselves enjoying this recipe! Perhaps it’s the fact that mackerel is also incredibly nutritious, packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids?

Dijon Mustard Topping

For an exquisite touch, top your fillets with high-quality Dijon mustard and a sprinkle of freshly milled black pepper. This combination creates a delightful balance of acidity that complements the rich flavors of the fish perfectly. While any mustard works well, our favorite is the classic Dijon. However, feel free to play around and use mustard with added flavors for an extra kick!

Spread a generous layer of mustard over the mackerel fillets, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This crucial step adds depth to the dish and creates a delicious crust when pan-fried.

How to Cook Mackerel Fillets – The Best Cooking Method

The best way to cook fresh mackerel is by pan-frying it, which I learned from our local fishmonger, Matthieu. This method is not only quick but also prevents the fish from being overcooked. The goal is to serve the fish still tender and fluffy, preserving its essential nutrients and flavors.

Do I Need to Soak Mackerel Before Cooking?

No need to soak fresh mackerel fillets before cooking! Just ensure they are clean and ready to go.

Pan-Frying Mackerel with Mustard

The ideal way to prepare mackerel is to develop a golden crust on the outside while keeping it moist and flavorful inside. To achieve this, heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil with a knob of butter. This combination prevents the butter from burning and adds delicious flavor.

Once the oil and butter are hot, gently place the coated fillets in the pan, skin side down, and let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden. Using a large spatula, carefully flip each fillet and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; with just a few minutes on each side, you’ll have beautifully cooked mackerel that’s succulent and full of flavor.

Can I Eat Pan-Fried Mackerel Skin?

Absolutely, you can eat the skin of the mackerel! Whether you choose to enjoy it or not is purely a matter of personal preference. When cooked to a crispy finish, the skin adds a delightful texture. Personally, I prefer to leave the skin on, but my husband, Antoine, enjoys it. This way, there’s no food waste!

Using Canned Mackerel

If fresh mackerel isn’t available, don’t worry! You can easily adapt this recipe to use canned mackerel instead. Simply place the tinned fish on toast, spread with mustard, and instead of pan-frying, pop them under a hot grill until sizzling.

How to Cook Ready-to-Eat Mackerel?

If you have fresh mackerel that’s already cooked and ready to eat, there’s no need for further cooking. Often available smoked at supermarkets, these are perfect for salads. Flake the fish into a roasted beetroot salad with apple and nuts for a delightful meal.

What Goes Best with Pan-Fried Mackerel with Mustard?

When it comes to serving suggestions, pan-fried mackerel pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider adding fresh citrus juice from orange, lemon, or lime to enhance the fish’s flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chervil, or dill can elevate the dish both visually and in taste.