herring in tomato sauce

How to Make Tomato Braised Mackerel: A Complete Guide

Tomato braised mackerel is a flavorful, nutritious dish that balances the richness of fish with the tanginess of tomatoes. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to try.

Ingredients: 2 fresh mackerel (cleaned and scored), 2 tbsp cooking oil, 1 onion (sliced), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 400g canned tomatoes (crushed), 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp sugar, 1 cup water, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Steps:

1. Prepare the fish: Score the mackerel diagonally on both sides to help absorb flavors. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.

3. Simmer sauce: Stir in tomato paste, cook for 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes, sugar, and water. Simmer for 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.

4. Braise the fish: Gently place the mackerel in the sauce. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, occasionally spooning sauce over the fish to keep it moist.

5. Serve: Transfer to a plate, pour the sauce over, and garnish with parsley. Enjoy with rice or crusty bread.

This dish is versatile—add carrots or bell peppers for extra veggies, or a splash of vinegar for brightness. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal!

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