In season
From February to April
Fleet
Fishing boats
Fishing method
Purse-seine and hook and line
Fishermen per boat
Purse seine: 16 fishermen Hook and line: 1 to 7 fishermen
Fishing time
Caught daily

Mackerel

Mackerel was not worth much and was not very popular until recently. It is caught near the Basque coastline and even though it is a hardier fish than anchovies, it is still fished daily to ensure freshness.

Description

Shape
The mackerel has an elongated body covered in tiny scales.
Colour
The body is blue with a silvery grey belly and fins. It is has characteristic black stripes across its back.
Eating habits
They feed on crustaceans and pelagic species such as sardines and small herrings.
Length and weight
Around 30 cm250-300 g

How to detect the freshness of fish

Always choose bright, shiny fish with firm flesh.

Fresh fish should always smell of seaweed and the sea.

The gills should be pink or bright red and free of slime.

El pescado en casa

Keep refrigerated

As the cold chain can easily be broken once the fish leaves the fishmonger, it is important to store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator (between 2 and 4°C). Always consume as soon as possible.

Handle with care

To enjoy fish at its best, the less it is handled, the better. Always handle and cut fish quickly and firmly.

Store wrapped in a damp cloth

The best way to keep fish fresh for longer is to store it in the fridge wrapped in a damp cloth.

Fish freezes well

The fresher it is when you freeze it, the better it will be upon thawing. To ensure best results, always allow frozen fish to thaw slowly in the fridge to prevent sudden changes in temperature.

Marinated mackerel with roast white onion

Ingredients

  • Atlantic or horse mackerel - 800 g
  • Fine salt - 1 kg
  • Sugar - 1 kg
  • Green part of spring onion - 150 g
  • Toasted almonds - 100 g
  • Extra virgin olive oil - 50 ml
  • Lemon juice- 10 ml
  • Garlic paste - 15 g
  • Mild olive oil 800 g
  • Lemon rind
January
February
March
April
May
June
Uztaila
August
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