Mackerel Salad

Mackerel Salad Recipe from Malaysia with Bean Sprouts, Coriander Leaves, and Long Beans

Region / culture: Malaysia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mackerel Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. This salad is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a great option for those looking to eat clean and stay energized throughout the day.

History

Mackerel Salad has its roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, where fresh seafood is abundant and often used in salads and other dishes. The combination of fresh mackerel with herbs and spices creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

300 g of Spanish mackerel flesh
5 sliced shallots
0.5 cup of bean sprouts
coriander leaves
2 stalks of long beans, sliced 0.5 cm thick
1 stalk of chopped lemongrass
1 stalk of spring onions, cut into 1 cm pieces
1 tsp of chili powder (can substitute with paprika)
4 tbsp of fish sauce
1 tsp of sugar
3 tsp of lime juice (can substitute with lemon juice)
Chopped birds eye chilis (optional)

How to prepare

Steam the Spanish Mackerel until cooked.
Remove the flesh and break it into bite-sized pieces, ensuring there are no bones.
Put the flesh into a bowl and add the remaining ingredients.
Toss the mixture until well mixed.

Variations

Try adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist to this salad. You can also substitute the Spanish mackerel with another type of fish, such as tuna or salmon, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When steaming the Spanish mackerel, be sure to cook it just until it is done to avoid overcooking and drying out the fish. Breaking the flesh into bite-sized pieces ensures that each bite is easy to eat and enjoy. Adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mackerel Salad on a bed of fresh greens or with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal. Garnish with extra coriander leaves and sliced chili peppers for added flavor and heat.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the mackerel ensures that it stays moist and tender, while also preserving its natural flavors. Tossing the salad ingredients together allows the flavors to meld and develop over time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find Spanish mackerel, you can use another type of white fish, such as cod or haddock, as a substitute. Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite herbs and vegetables.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Mackerel Salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss the salad again before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Mackerel Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with extra herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Mackerel Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Mackerel Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mackerel Salad contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a meal or snack.

Carbohydrates

This Mackerel Salad recipe contains minimal carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Fats

The Spanish mackerel used in this recipe is a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function.

Proteins

Mackerel is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. This salad provides a satisfying amount of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

This Mackerel Salad is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and antioxidants from the herbs and spices. These nutrients help support a healthy immune system and overall well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients used.

Summary

Overall, Mackerel Salad is a nutrient-dense and flavorful dish that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal.

Summary

Mackerel Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through my grandmother's old recipe book. The pages were yellowed with age, and the edges were frayed from years of use. As I flipped through the pages, a handwritten recipe caught my eye. It was for a Mackerel Salad, a dish I had never heard of before.

Curious, I asked my grandmother about the recipe. She smiled and said it was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. She told me that she had learned to make the salad from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. I was intrigued and eager to learn more.

My grandmother took me into the kitchen and showed me how to make the salad. She started by poaching the mackerel in a flavorful broth, then flaking it into bite-sized pieces. Next, she mixed the mackerel with crunchy celery, tangy red onion, and briny capers. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard brought all the flavors together.

As we sat down to eat the Mackerel Salad, I was amazed at how delicious it was. The mackerel was tender and flavorful, the vegetables crisp and refreshing. The dressing added a zesty kick that tied everything together perfectly. I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Mackerel Salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added fresh herbs like dill and parsley for extra flavor, and sometimes I substitute pickles for the capers for a different twist. No matter how I make it, the salad always reminds me of my grandmother and the special bond we shared in the kitchen.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. They are always amazed at how such simple ingredients can come together to create such a flavorful dish. I love passing on the recipe to others, knowing that it will bring them as much joy as it has brought me.

As I grow older, I cherish the memories of cooking with my grandmother and the lessons she taught me in the kitchen. She instilled in me a love of food and a passion for cooking that has stayed with me throughout my life. The Mackerel Salad recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.