Crispy & Juicy Grilled Mackerel: The Foolproof Recipe for Fish That’s Never Fishy
Crispy & Juicy Grilled Mackerel: The Foolproof Recipe for Fish That’s Never Fishy!
Discover how to achieve perfectly crispy skin and incredibly moist, tender flesh with this easy grilled mackerel recipe. I’m sharing my secrets to eliminate any fishy odors and ensure a beautiful golden-brown, crackling skin and succulent interior. This guide is perfect for beginners, promising delicious results every time.
Ingredients- 1/2 mackerel, fresh or thawed
- 1 Tbsp pancake mix (buchimgaru)
- Pinch of black pepper (about 3-4 shakes)
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
If using frozen mackerel, thaw it completely in cold water. Once thawed, gently rinse the fish and then thoroughly pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, which helps eliminate any fishy smell and ensures a crispier skin.
Step 2
After ensuring the mackerel is dry, lightly and evenly coat the skin side of the fish with pancake mix. This acts as a light batter, enhancing the crispiness of the skin and preventing the fish’s juices from escaping during cooking.
Step 3
Sprinkle black pepper onto the flesh side of the mackerel. Pepper helps to further mask any potential fishy odors. Avoid over-seasoning; about 3-4 light shakes should be sufficient to add flavor without making it too spicy.
Step 4
Now, let’s start grilling. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Carefully place the mackerel into the hot pan, skin-side down. Starting on higher heat helps to quickly sear the skin and lock in moisture.
Step 5
Let the mackerel cook undisturbed on the skin side until the flesh starts to turn opaque white near the bottom. Continue cooking until the skin is beautifully golden and visibly crispy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on the heat.
Step 6
Once the skin is perfectly crispy, gently flip the mackerel over. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook the flesh side for about 1 minute, just until cooked through. This ensures the flesh remains moist and tender while the skin stays wonderfully crisp. Enjoy your delicious grilled mackerel!
