Goan Style Salted Mackerel Salad Recipe (Salada De Cavalas Salgadas)
This Goan Style Salted Mackerel Salad, also known as Salada De Cavalas Salgadas, is a vibrant and tangy side dish that perfectly balances the savory flavor of roasted mackerel with the fresh zest of lemon and vinegar. The mackerel is first roasted until it gets a beautiful, crispy skin, then shredded into tender flakes that are combined with crunchy onions, juicy tomatoes, fragrant coriander leaves, and a dash of chilli vinegar to give it a delightful kick. Perfect for any meal, this quick and easy salad brings a burst of Goan flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. Whether enjoyed with a spicy curry or served as a standalone dish, it is sure to please.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mackerel fish | 2 whole pieces |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Tomato | 1 medium, chopped |
| Coriander (Dhania) leaves | 3 sprigs, chopped |
| Chilli vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For roasting |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-4
Instructions
-
Marinate the Mackerel:
Begin by marinating the mackerel fish with a generous sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Ensure the fish is well-coated in the seasoning for even flavor. -
Roast the Fish:
Heat a flat skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Once the oil is hot, place the mackerel in the pan. Cook the fish for at least 10 minutes, turning occasionally until it is well-roasted on both sides. The skin should become crispy and the fish should be tender. -
Cool the Fish:
Once roasted, remove the mackerel from the pan and let it cool down for a few minutes. -
Shred the Fish:
After the fish has cooled, carefully remove the flesh from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Flake the fish into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. -
Combine Ingredients:
To the bowl with the mackerel, add the chopped onion, tomato, coriander leaves, black pepper powder, chilli vinegar, and lemon juice. Toss everything together gently to mix well. -
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, adding salt as needed. If you prefer more tang, add a little more lemon juice or vinegar. -
Serve:
Serve this Goan Style Salted Mackerel Salad as a side dish with your favorite Goan or Kerala-style dishes like Goan Prawn Curry, Kerala Style Vegetable Stew with Coconut Milk, or simply with steamed rice and Malabar Parotta.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200 kcal |
| Protein | High (from mackerel) |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
This salad is not only packed with proteins but is also an excellent source of healthy fats from mackerel, making it a great choice for those looking for a high-protein, non-vegetarian dish. The combination of fresh vegetables with the roasted mackerel, along with the acidity from the vinegar and lemon juice, ensures that every bite is flavorful and refreshing.
Enjoy this tangy, savory, and healthy dish with your next meal for a true taste of Goa!
