Tender and Golden Air Fryer Mackerel
How to Cook Mackerel in an Air Fryer: A Simple Fish Cooking Recipe
I discovered that cooking mackerel in an air fryer significantly reduces fish odor in the house, resulting in a moist and beautifully golden-brown fish that was absolutely delicious. ^^
Air Fryer Mackerel Ingredients- 2 pieces frozen mackerel
- 0.3-0.5 Tbsp curry powder (to remove fishiness and enhance flavor)
- 1-1.5 Tbsp olive oil (for a moist and glossy finish)
Ingredients for Removing Mackerel Fishiness- 1.5 L rice water (to absorb fish odor)
- 1.5 L rice water (to absorb fish odor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
▶ Let the frozen mackerel thaw naturally at room temperature for about 1 hour before cooking. If it’s too cold, it might not cook evenly all the way through.
Step 2
▶ Prepare 1.5 liters of rice water to soak the mackerel. Submerge the thawed mackerel in the rice water for approximately 15 minutes. This step effectively neutralizes the characteristic fishy smell and taste.
Step 3
▶ After 15 minutes, remove the mackerel from the rice water and rinse it gently under running water.
Step 4
▶ Pat the rinsed mackerel dry thoroughly with kitchen towels. Excess moisture can cause oil to splatter during cooking or prevent the skin from becoming crispy.
Step 5
▶ Drizzle or brush 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over both sides of the dried mackerel. The olive oil will help achieve a crispy skin, keep the flesh moist, and give it an appetizing golden-brown color.
Step 6
▶ Sprinkle the curry powder evenly over the mackerel. Be cautious not to use too much, about 0.3-0.5 tablespoons is sufficient, as excessive amounts can make it salty. Sprinkle lightly, observing the color of the fish, to ensure it’s not too salty. Once sprinkled, put on disposable gloves and gently rub the curry powder all over the fish to help it adhere and absorb. The curry flavor helps mask any fishy odors and adds a pleasant aroma.
Step 7
▶ Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and place the prepared mackerel inside, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. Overlapping can prevent even cooking.
Step 8
▶ If your air fryer has a ‘fish’ setting, set it to 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes. As a general guideline, if you don’t have a specific setting, a common temperature for cooking fish is 180°C (356°F) for 13-15 minutes. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary depending on the size and weight of the fish, as well as your specific air fryer model. It’s always a good idea to check for doneness partway through.
Step 9
▶ Once the air fryer has finished its cycle, carefully open the basket. If the mackerel is golden brown and looks perfectly cooked, your air fryer mackerel is ready! Enjoy it while it’s warm for the best flavor and texture. ^^
