Mackerel, Atlantic

Common Name:

Atlantic mackerel

Product Information:

Mackerel has a rich, pronounced flavor. The meat is soft, flaky and moist. The outer bands of dark, strong-tasting meat along the midline may be cut out for a milder flavor.The raw fish looks grayish and oily but firms up and becomes off-white to beige when cooked. The skin of fresh fish should have a nice sheen, and the eyes should be bright and concave. Small scales cover the entire body and give the skin a velvety texture. The mackerel’s distinctive coloring quickly begins to fade after the fish dies.

Cooking Tips:

Mackerel is considered one of the more healthful fish because it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Its oil content makes mackerel an excellent candidate for barbecuing or smoking. A lime marinade before cooking smoothes the taste and firms and whitens the meat. Europeans temper the pronounced flavor of mackerel by serving it with a sharp, acidic sauce such as gooseberry or unsweetened cranberry sauce.

Cooking Methods: