Nutri Natters

Rita’s blog for lovers of real food

Mackerel – fresh from our seas

19th January 2018

The seas off the Britsh Isles are brimming with many species of fish, yet we Brits have a seemingly insatiable appetite for cod and haddock, while turning up our noses at other  delicious (and often cheaper) varieties. Mackerel is a case in point: it’s a plentiful native species that is sustainably caught and one of the tastiest fish on the fishmonger’s slab. From a health point of view, it’s a rich source of Omega-3 fats, an essential fat missing from the diet of many people.

You’ll be pleased to learn that a whole mackerel can be bought for about £1.50, or less,  making a good meal for two people. Here’s a very simple, quick recipe for mackerel done in the oven. You can also grill a mackerel in minutes (no need to add oil).

 Mackerel with Herbs (serves 2)
1 mackerel (ask the fishmonger to gut the fish and cut off the head)
a few slices of lemon (optional)
a small bunch of herbs e.g. rosemary, dill, parsley
Set the oven to 180 degrees/gas mark 5. Place fish in an oven-proof dish with the lemon slices and herbs tucked inside the fish. Pour in enough water to just cover the fish. Cover the dish with a lid. It takes about 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on the size of the fish.

Serve with loads of vegetables.

Bask in the knowledge that you are keeping British fishermen at sea!

Rita