Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to spice up your meals? Look no further! King mackerel, with its rich flavor and firm texture, is the perfect canvas for a variety of bold and zesty dishes. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 spicy king mackerel recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. From classic ceviche to bold curry, and from tacos to fish cakes, our collection features a range of international flavors and cooking methods that are sure to satisfy even the most adventurous eaters.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering recipes. So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and get ready to ignite your passion for seafood!
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Grilled King Mackerel with Lemon Garlic Butter
Grilled King Mackerel with Lemon Garlic Butter: A Simple yet Flavorsome Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of king mackerel with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic, making for a delightful summer dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 king mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the king mackerel fillets with the lemon garlic butter mixture.
4. Grill the mackerel for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pan-Seared King Mackerel with Chili Lime Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavor of king mackerel with a bold and tangy chili lime sauce, making for a delightful seafood dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 king mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the king mackerel fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and chili flakes.
4. Place the fillets in a shallow dish and brush both sides with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the chili lime mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
6. Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
7. Sear the king mackerel fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with additional chili lime sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total.
King Mackerel Ceviche with Mango and Avocado
This refreshing ceviche recipe combines the delicate flavor of king mackerel with the sweetness of mango and creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king mackerel fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine king mackerel pieces, mango, and avocado.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle cilantro over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This ceviche is a raw dish, so no cooking required.
Spicy King Mackerel Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the richness of coconut milk with the boldness of king mackerel, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket. Perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king mackerel fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add king mackerel pieces and cook until they’re coated with the spice mixture, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
King Mackerel Tacos with Chipotle Mayo
Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this recipe that combines the richness of king mackerel with the spicy kick of chipotle mayonnaise, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king mackerel fillets
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chipotle mayo (see below)
– Sliced radishes, cilantro, and avocado for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place king mackerel fillets in the marinade, coating both sides evenly.
4. Grill mackerel for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled king mackerel, chipotle mayo, radishes, cilantro, and avocado.
Chipotle Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
Mix mayonnaise and chipotles until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Baked King Mackerel with Herbs and Tomatoes
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist king mackerel dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of fresh herbs and tomatoes adds a burst of citrusy freshness to the rich fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 king mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the king mackerel fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle garlic, parsley, and basil evenly.
5. Top each fillet with cherry tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
King Mackerel Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions
This vibrant stir-fry combines the rich flavor of king mackerel with the spicy warmth of ginger and the crunch of scallions, making for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king mackerel fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the king mackerel and cook until opaque and flaky, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the ginger, scallions, and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the fish to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or sesame oil.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked King Mackerel Dip with Cream Cheese
This addictive dip combines the rich flavor of smoked king mackerel with the tanginess of cream cheese, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) package smoked king mackerel, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flaked mackerel, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and paprika. Mix until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden brown on top.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
King Mackerel Sashimi with Wasabi Soy Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this refreshing King Mackerel Sashimi dish, elevated by a zesty Wasabi Soy Dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh King Mackerel fillets
– 1/2 cup wasabi soy sauce (see note)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the King Mackerel into thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together wasabi soy sauce, lime juice, and sugar until well combined.
3. Place the sashimi slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Drizzle the Wasabi Soy Dressing over the fish, allowing it to set for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is served raw.
Note: To make wasabi soy sauce, mix 1/4 cup soy sauce with 2 tsp grated fresh wasabi (or 1/2 tsp wasabi powder) and adjust to taste. Store any remaining dressing in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
King Mackerel Fish Cakes with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of king mackerel with a spicy kick. These crispy fish cakes are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king mackerel, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine flaked king mackerel, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Form into 6-8 patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
King Mackerel Stew with Okra and Bell Peppers
This hearty stew combines the rich flavor of king mackerel with the tender crunch of okra and bell peppers, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king mackerel fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup fresh okra, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mackerel pieces and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the okra and paprika. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the okra is tender.
5. Return the mackerel to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened King Mackerel with Cajun Seasoning
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the rich taste of king mackerel, creating a dish that’s both spicy and savory. Perfect for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 king mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the mackerel fillets in a shallow dish and sprinkle both sides with the spice mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Heat a skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add the mackerel fillets, blackened side down (the side coated with the spice mixture).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until blackened, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
King Mackerel Poke Bowl with Sriracha Drizzle
Experience the bold flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing King Mackerel Poke Bowl, elevated by a spicy Sriracha drizzle. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade King Mackerel, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sriracha sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the King Mackerel cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the poke bowl by placing a scoop of cooked rice in the bottom, followed by the marinated King Mackerel, green onions, and cucumber.
5. Drizzle with Sriracha sauce just before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
King Mackerel Escabeche with Pickled Vegetables
This Spanish-inspired dish combines the richness of king mackerel with the tanginess of pickled vegetables, creating a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 king mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup white wine vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the king mackerel fillets to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the fish from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaking easily with a fork.
6. Serve with pickled vegetables (cook according to package instructions).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
King Mackerel Kebabs with Pineapple and Jalapeños
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of the ocean with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring succulent king mackerel paired with juicy pineapple and crunchy jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king mackerel fillets, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread king mackerel, pineapple, and jalapeños onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto the kebabs.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until fish is cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
King Mackerel Chowder with Corn and Potatoes
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of fresh seafood, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. A delicious and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king mackerel fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh corn kernels
– 2 cups diced Yukon gold potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add king mackerel, corn, potatoes, fish broth, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
King Mackerel Fried Rice with Scallions and Chili Oil
Elevate your fried rice game with this flavorful and spicy recipe featuring king mackerel, scallions, and chili oil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked king mackerel, flaked
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup scallions, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chili oil (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add the cooked king mackerel, scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Pour in the chili oil; stir-fry until the rice is well coated.
6. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
King Mackerel Burgers with Spicy Slaw
Elevate your burger game with this unique recipe featuring king mackerel, a sustainable and flavorful fish option. The spicy slaw adds a tangy and refreshing touch to balance out the richness of the fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king mackerel fillets
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Spicy Slaw (see below)
– Buns, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite burger toppings
Spicy Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip king mackerel fillets into breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers with spicy slaw, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with these 18 mouth-watering King Mackerel recipes! From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to bold and adventurous creations, there’s something for every palate. Try Grilled King Mackerel with Lemon Garlic Butter, Pan-Seared King Mackerel with Chili Lime Sauce, or Spicy King Mackerel Curry with Coconut Milk. Or, take your taste buds on a trip with King Mackerel Tacos with Chipotle Mayo or King Mackerel Poke Bowl with Sriracha Drizzle. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
