Shioyaki Saba (Grilled Mackerel with Salt) 🐟🔥

Description

Simple, bold, and deeply satisfying — Shioyaki Saba is a traditional Japanese grilled mackerel dish seasoned only with salt. It brings out the natural umami of the fish, making it perfect for mindful eaters who appreciate clean flavors and minimal ingredients. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — a timeless classic from coastal Japan.

Ingredients

• 🐟 2 fillets of mackerel (about 300 g total) (10.5 oz)
• 🧂 1 tsp coarse sea salt
• 🍋 Lemon wedges (optional)
• 🧄 Grated daikon (optional, for serving)

Preparation

1. 1️⃣ Prep the fish: Rinse mackerel fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. 2️⃣ Salt generously: Sprinkle both sides of the fillets with sea salt. Let sit for 15 minutes.
3. 3️⃣ Preheat grill: Set grill to medium-high or use oven broiler.
4. 4️⃣ Grill the fish: Place fillets skin-side up on a grill rack. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side or until the skin is golden and crispy.
5. 5️⃣ Serve: Plate with lemon wedges and grated daikon on the side. Enjoy immediately.

Total Time

🕒 Prep: 5 min

⏲️ Rest: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 15 min

⏳ Total: 35 min

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