Name: Soy-Glazed Baked Mackerel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 whole fresh-frozen mackerel (thawed), cleaned and cut into thick slices; For the Sauce:; 4 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1/3 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Soy-Glazed Baked Mackerel is tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Coated in a savory-sweet soy-lemon marinade with a touch of paprika, each piece bakes to golden, flaky perfection in just 20 minutes—ideal for a nourishing, protein-rich weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together bold umami flavor, quick preparation, and wholesome ingredients. Mackerel is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, making it a smart choice for a heart-healthy diet. The soy glaze adds richness and depth without overpowering the naturally delicious flavor of the fish. Whether you’re new to cooking seafood or simply looking for a fast, flavorful dinner, this dish is as approachable as it is satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 whole fresh-frozen mackerel (thawed), cleaned and cut into thick slices

For the Sauce:

4 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
⅓ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lemon juice, sugar, paprika, and vegetable oil until fully combined.
Arrange the mackerel slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the marinade evenly over the fish, coating each slice thoroughly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the mackerel is golden, cooked through, and the sauce is slightly caramelized.
Serve hot with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: 210 kcal

Variations

Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Citrus blend: Substitute lime or orange juice for lemon for a different citrus note.
Ginger infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for added aroma and warmth.
Honey-glazed: Replace sugar with honey for a deeper sweetness and glossy finish.
Grilled version: Cook the marinated fish on a grill pan or outdoor grill for a smoky variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Not recommended once baked, as the texture of fish may degrade.
Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fillets instead of sliced whole mackerel?

Yes. Fillets can be used; reduce baking time slightly depending on thickness.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I make this with other types of fish?

Yes, firm fish like salmon, cod, or trout will also work well with this glaze.

Do I need to marinate the fish ahead of time?

No. The sauce acts as both a glaze and a marinade during baking, eliminating the need for advance prep.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish slices.

What can I serve this with?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a fresh cucumber salad complement this dish beautifully.

Is fresh mackerel necessary?

Frozen mackerel works just as well when properly thawed. Ensure it is cleaned and sliced before marinating.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, especially when served with rice or mild vegetables. Reduce or omit paprika if preferred.

What’s the best way to prevent overcooking the fish?

Bake just until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Do not exceed 20–22 minutes to avoid drying it out.

Conclusion

Soy-Glazed Baked Mackerel is a quick, healthy, and deeply flavorful seafood dish that fits perfectly into any busy weeknight routine. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe brings out the natural richness of mackerel while enhancing it with savory soy, bright lemon, and gentle spice. It’s a fuss-free, wholesome meal that delivers satisfaction in every bite.

Soy-Glazed Baked Mackerel

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Mia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

Soy-Glazed Baked Mackerel is a quick and flavorful fish dish, marinated in a savory-sweet soy-lemon sauce and roasted until golden. This protein-packed meal is rich in omega-3s, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 whole fresh-frozen mackerel (thawed), cleaned and cut into thick slices
For the Sauce:
4 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/3 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lemon juice, sugar, paprika, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Arrange the mackerel slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking dish.
Pour the sauce evenly over the fish slices, making sure each piece is coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the fish is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
Serve hot with a side of steamed rice or roasted vegetables.