Friends, meet our new product in the store: whole hot-smoked mackerel!
Mackerel is a marine fish from the mackerel family that is often mistaken for Atlantic mackerel due to their similar appearance. Mackerel lives in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, especially in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. This fish has an elongated body, distinctive stripes on its back, and reaches an average length of 30-60 cm. Why should mackerel appear on your table from time to time?
Benefits
Thanks to its rich fat content and tender texture, hot-smoked mackerel has a pronounced, slightly sweet flavor that many appreciate for its juiciness and mild smoky aroma. Compared to other smoked fish, such as Atlantic mackerel, trout, or salmon, mackerel is often perceived as richer and more delicate, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy fattier fish varieties. In Japan, for example, mackerel is prized for its richness and is often used in sushi.
Compared to other fish, mackerel is particularly high in vitamins B12 and B6, which help maintain normal hemoglobin levels, making it especially beneficial for the prevention and treatment of anemia. It’s also rich in Vitamin D and selenium, which support immune health and aid calcium absorption for strong bones and teeth.
A Bit of History
Mackerel fishing was popular as far back as ancient times. Since antiquity, mackerel was considered one of the best fish for making garum – a popular fish sauce in ancient Rome. This sauce was a significant part of local trade, and mackerel became one of the first fish caught on an "industrial" level.With the development of technology and trade routes during the Age of Discovery, mackerel fishing spread worldwide. The 20th century saw significant growth in mackerel fishing using modern technology. Trawling and netting methods developed, as well as the use of deep-sea nets and electronic devices to detect fish schools. Countries like Japan, Norway, Iceland, and Russia became major players in mackerel fishing. Today, mackerel is one of the most popular species in global fishing, which has threatened its population. In the 21st century, international agreements and organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) introduced sustainable fishing programs aimed at controlling mackerel catch and preventing population depletion.
Cuisine
Mackerel is an affordable, nutritious, and delicious product that can be incorporated into meals in various ways, whether baked, fried, or smoked. Here are the top 3 most popular and tasty dishes made from our whole hot-smoked mackerel:
Smoked Mackerel Rillettes Description: A French appetizer resembling a pâté, perfect for spreading on bread or crackers. How to prepare: Remove the bones from the smoked mackerel fillet. Mash with a fork, add cream cheese, a bit of lemon juice, chopped green onion, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and serve with toast or bread.
Shepherd’s Pie with Mackerel Description: A traditional English pie typically made with meat, but mackerel adds an interesting ocean flavor and juiciness to the dish. How to prepare: Remove the bones from the smoked mackerel fillet. Place pieces of smoked mackerel at the bottom of a baking dish, add vegetables (onions, carrots, celery) on top, then pour a sauce made from milk and flour over it. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden.
Mackerel Salad with Avocado and Spinach Description: A light and healthy salad that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the rich flavor of smoked mackerel. How to prepare: Remove the bones from the smoked mackerel fillet. Mix spinach or salad leaves, sliced avocado, smoked mackerel pieces, and fresh cucumber. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice, and add salt and pepper. This salad is perfect for a light dinner or appetizer.
Enjoy!
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