why make this recipe
Air fryer mackerel cooks fast and gets crispy outside while staying juicy inside. You get big fish flavor with little oil and little mess. It is a healthy choice and fits busy weeknights or a simple weekend meal. If you like other air fryer fish, try this air fryer salmon recipe for more ideas.
introduction
This Air Fryer Mackerel Recipe is easy to make. The spices and lemon give bright flavor. The air fryer makes the skin crisp and the flesh tender. You do not need deep frying or much cleanup.
how to make Air Fryer Mackerel Recipe
Ingredients :
2 whole mackerel (cleaned, slit on both sides), 1 tbsp oil, 1 tsp salt (adjust), 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp black pepper powder, 1 tsp garlic paste, 1 tsp ginger paste, 1 tsp lemon juice, Optional: 1/2 tsp cumin powder or fish masala
Directions :
Pat dry the mackerel completely. In a bowl, mix all the spices, oil, and lemon juice to form a marinade. Rub the marinade generously inside, outside, and into the slits of the fish. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes. Place the mackerel in the basket (lightly greased). Air fry at 180°C for 10 minutes, then flip and cook at 200°C for 5–7 minutes for a crispy outer layer. Squeeze a little more lemon before serving. Add a few curry leaves or a pinch of garam masala for extra aroma. Don’t overcrowd the basket to help it crisp better. Brush a little oil halfway if you want a slightly more roasted look.
how to serve Air Fryer Mackerel Recipe
Serve the mackerel hot. Squeeze fresh lemon over the fish. Add chopped onions, salad, or a simple yogurt dip on the side. Plain rice or roasted vegetables work well. You can also serve with a light salad and toasted bread. For side ideas, see these easy chicken breast recipes you’ll love to mix and match with your meal.
how to store Air Fryer Mackerel Recipe
Cool the fish to room temperature before storing. Place in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 160°C for 4–6 minutes to keep the skin crispy. Do not store at room temperature for long. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Air Fryer Mackerel Recipe
- Pat the fish very dry. Dry skin crisps better.
- Use slits so the marinade soaks in.
- Do not crowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Flip once for even cooking.
- Brush a little oil halfway for a roasted look.
- Adjust salt and chilli to your taste.
- Add curry leaves or garam masala at the end for aroma.
variation (if any)
- Make a simple lemon-herb version: skip red chilli and add chopped parsley and lemon zest.
- Use fish masala or cumin powder for a spicier taste.
- Try marinating for 15–30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- For mild heat, reduce red chilli powder and add a pinch of smoked paprika.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when the mackerel is done?
A: The flesh should flake easily and look opaque. The skin should be crisp. Cook times in the recipe work for medium-sized mackerel.
Q: Can I use frozen mackerel?
A: Thaw fully in the fridge, pat dry, and follow the same steps. Make sure the fish is not cold inside before air frying.
Q: Do I need to oil the air fryer basket?
A: Lightly greasing the basket helps prevent sticking and helps crisp the skin. You can also use air fryer paper for fish.
Q: Can I use other spices?
A: Yes. Cumin, coriander, or fish masala work well. Adjust to taste.
Q: Is it safe to eat mackerel if slightly undercooked?
A: No. Always cook fish until fully opaque and flaky to avoid food safety issues.
Conclusion
If you want another quick, crispy mackerel idea, check the 3 Ingredient Mess-Free CRISPY Air Fryer Mackerel – Tiffy Cooks.
Air Fryer Mackerel
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the mackerel dry completely.
- In a bowl, mix all spices, oil, and lemon juice to form a marinade.
- Rub the marinade generously inside, outside, and into the slits of the fish.
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes.
- Place the mackerel in the basket (lightly greased).
- Air fry at 180°C for 10 minutes.
- Flip the mackerel and cook at 200°C for an additional 5–7 minutes for a crispy outer layer.
- Squeeze a little more lemon before serving.