Grilled Mackerel with Caramelized Onions

Ingredients

• 4 mackerel fillets 4 mackerel fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 8g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Place the mackerel fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fillets are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.
4. 4.
   Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt.
5. 5.
   Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook until they become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the onions caramelize and turn golden brown. This process may take around 15-20 minutes.
7. 7.
   While the onions are caramelizing, grill the marinated mackerel fillets for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have grill marks.
8. 8.
   Once the mackerel is cooked, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter.
9. 9.
   Top the grilled mackerel with the caramelized onions and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mackerel — Ensure that the mackerel fillets are fresh and have been properly cleaned. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the fillets in milk for 30 minutes before marinating.
• Onions — Use sweet onions such as Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best caramelized flavor. Thinly slice the onions to ensure even cooking and caramelization.

Tips & Tricks

• For added smokiness, you can use a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
• If you don't have dried oregano and thyme, you can use fresh herbs instead. Double the amount if using fresh herbs.
• Serve the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing citrusy flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Leftover grilled mackerel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and enjoyed cold or reheated.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Mackerel with Caramelized Onions as a main course, accompanied by a side of crusty bread and a fresh green salad. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled mackerel fillets on a platter and top them with a generous amount of caramelized onions. Sprinkle some fresh herbs over the dish for a pop of color. Serve it family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves to the flavorful fish and onions.