Mackerel en Papillote with Fennel Recipe

If you’re looking for a light, healthy but flavorful dish, try this mackerel en papillote recipe with fennel. This dish is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber. Cooking in parchment paper makes the fish very tender and juicy and you can enhance flavors by adding your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables. Let’s get started with our delicious and healthy recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 fresh mackerel fillets
• 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut two large pieces of baking parchment paper, about 12×16 inches each. Fold each paper in half and cut a half heart shape into each piece, so that opening the paper results in a full heart shape when it’s unfolded.
3. In a sauté pan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, fennel, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Divide the cooked vegetables in the center of each parchment heart.
5. Place one mackerel fillet on top of the vegetables, skin side down.
6. Place 2 or 3 lemon slices and 2 thyme sprigs on top of the mackerel fillet. Season with salt and black pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Close each heart by bringing both sides together and crimping the edges together to create a tight seal.
8. Place the parchment hearts on a large baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes until the parchment paper puffs up and the fish is cooked through.
9. To serve, carefully open the parchment heart with scissors or a sharp knife and let the steam escape. Garnish with additional lemon slices and fresh thyme.

Verdict:

This dish is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a healthy and tasty meal. The mackerel fillet is cooked to perfection and remains juicy and flavorful thanks to the cooking technique. Fennel adds a sweet, anise-like flavor to the dish, which complements the fish very well. This recipe is easy to make, and you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.

Serving suggestions:

This dish can be served with steamed rice, couscous, or quinoa. A green salad or roasted vegetables can be served as a side dish to balance the flavors. You may also garnish the dish with chopped parsley, dill, or basil to add an extra layer of freshness. Enjoy!