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Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
Prepare the mackerel: Clean and remove the guts of the mackerel. Rinse thoroughly under cold water. Season the fish with salt, ground pepper, and fish seasoning. Drizzle with vegetable oil and set aside to marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with salt, ground pepper, seasoning for potatoes, and a drizzle of vegetable oil until evenly coated.
Marinate the onions: Thinly slice the onion. In a small bowl, mix the onion slices with a pinch of salt, sugar, coriander, and vinegar. Let the onions marinate for about 10 minutes to enhance their flavor.
Prepare the baking sheet: Place a large piece of parchment paper soaked in water on a baking sheet. Spread the seasoned potato slices evenly over the parchment paper.
Layer the vegetables: Spread the marinated onions and sliced sweet pepper evenly over the potatoes.
Add the mackerel: Place the seasoned mackerel on top of the vegetables. Dot the mackerel with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with dry parsley.
Cover and bake: Cover the entire dish with another piece of wet parchment paper to keep the fish moist. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Optional cheese topping: If you prefer a cheesy topping, grease a grater with vegetable oil and grate cheese over the top of the dish after the initial baking. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Rest and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal (approx.) | Servings: 4 servings
TIPS AND SHARING IDEAS
Selecting Mackerel: Choose fresh or properly frozen mackerel for the best flavor. Fresh mackerel should have clear eyes and firm flesh. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs. Dill, thyme, and rosemary are excellent choices for enhancing the flavor of mackerel.
Potato Alternatives: You can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes or a mix of root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for a different twist.
Vinegar Options: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used instead of regular vinegar for a slightly different tang.
Butter Substitute: For a dairy-free option, replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine.
Garlic and Herb Butter: Mix the minced garlic with butter and herbs to create a garlic herb butter to place on top of the fish for an added flavor boost.
Adding Citrus: A squeeze of lemon or lime over the mackerel before serving can add a fresh, zesty note that complements the rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the dish with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Leftover Ideas: If you have leftovers, flake the mackerel and mix with the potatoes and onions to create a savory fish cake mixture. Shape into patties and pan-fry until golden and crispy.
Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir to complement the flavors.
