Method 1
Ingredients
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
4 small whole mackerel
gutted and cleaned
For the drizzle
1 large red chilli
deseeded and finely chopped
1 small garlic clove
finely chopped
small knob fresh root ginger
finely chopped
2 tsp honey
2 limes
zested and juiced
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp Thai fish sauce
step 1
Light the barbecue and allow the flames to die down until the ashes have gone white with heat. Make the drizzle by whisking 2 tbsp olive oil and all the other ingredients together in a small bowl, adjusting the ratio of honey and lime to make a sharp sweetness. Season to taste.
step 2
Score each side of the mackerel about 6 times, not quite through to the bone. Brush the fish with the remaining oil and season lightly. Barbecue the mackerel for 5-6 mins on each side until the fish is charred and the eyes have turned white. Spoon the drizzle over the fish and allow to stand for 2-3 mins before serving.
RECIPE TIPS
COOKING MACKEREL
Simple, quick methods of cooking are best for
mackerel. Roasting, grilling or barbecuing all work well as the oils self-baste during cooking (pan-frying can cause the skin to stick to the pan). Fruit
works well with the oiliness of mackerel and it is traditionally served with a sharp sauce, such as gooseberry or rhubarb. It is also excellent cooked
with ginger, lime,
coriander and spices.
BUYING MACKEREL
Very fresh whole mackerel may still be in a state of rigor mortis and will be rigid and stiff. Once it’s out of rigor mortis the fish should still be firm, with no ‘give’ when you press the flesh. The eyes will look glassy and the gills should be a very deep red. Fillets should look firm with no discolouration. As the fish ages the flesh will soften, the eyes will become cloudy and the gills will tinge brown.
FREEZING MACKEREL
Oil-rich fish should be refrigerated quickly after buying, and is best eaten on the same day.
You can freeze mackerel, but it’s better frozen commercially as the techniques used prevent any change to the texture of the fish. Use frozen mackerel within three months and always defrost in the fridge.
Method 2
ingredients:
- 4 whole mackerel, gutted and cleaned
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or dill)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your BBQ grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto the mackerel, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the mackerel on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from the grill and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Enjoy your BBQ mackerel!



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