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Grilled Mackerel with Sesame Seeds

A simple yet impressive dish of mackerel fillets marinated in a savory-sweet glaze, grilled until crisp, and finished with toasted sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime.

Total time
35 min
Servings
4
Calories
320
Protein
28g
Grilled Mackerel with Sesame Seeds
sophisticatedweeknightJapanesepescatariangluten-free if using tamarifishcrispy skinflaky

Ingredients

  • 4 fillets mackerel fillets
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp sake
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1 whole lime

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp mirin, 1 tbsp sake, and 1 tsp sugar until the sugar dissolves.

  2. 2

    Place the 4 mackerel fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Turn to coat, then cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Meanwhile, toast the 2 tbsp sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking often, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

  4. 4

    Preheat your grill or broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly oil the rack or grate.

  5. 5

    Remove the mackerel from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place skin-side down on the prepared sheet.

  6. 6

    Grill or broil the mackerel for 4-6 minutes, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the skin is crisp and charred in spots.

  7. 7

    Transfer the mackerel to a platter, sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over.

  8. 8

    Let the fish rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Tools you’ll need

  • grill or broiler
  • baking sheet
  • small bowl
  • shallow dish
  • dry skillet

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