First and foremost, ensure you have a clean and spacious workspace before you begin. This will allow you to handle the fish with ease and maintain hygiene throughout the cleaning process.
To get started, rinse the mackerel under cold water to remove any loose scales or debris. Using a sharp knife, make a shallow cut along the belly of the fish from the head down to the tail. Be cautious not to cut too deeply as you want to avoid piercing the entrails.
Next, carefully insert your thumb into the incision and use it to separate the belly flaps from the body of the fish. This will expose the entrails, which you can now remove. Gently scrape your thumb along the inside of the belly to loosen the innards, being careful not to puncture the gall bladder as it can release a bitter-tasting fluid.
Once the entrails are removed, rinse the cavity of the fish thoroughly to ensure any remaining residues are washed away. Take extra care to clean the bloodline, which is the dark-colored strip running along the spine. This can contribute to the fishy taste often associated with mackerel. Use a small knife or spoon to scrape away any bloodline, working from the tail towards the head.
After cleaning the inner cavity, it’s time to tackle the scales. Hold the mackerel firmly by the tail and use a scaler or the back of a knife to scrape the scales off in firm, steady strokes, working from tail to head. Make sure to cover the entire fish, including the sides and back. Rinsing the fish intermittently under cold water can help remove loose scales and keep your workspace clean.
Once all the scales are removed, it’s time to focus on gills and fins. Gently pull back the gill covers and use a pair of scissors or a sharp knife to carefully remove them. Additionally, trim the fins located along the back and sides of the fish using kitchen shears or a knife.
At this point, your mackerel is clean and ready to be cooked or stored. Rinse it once more under cold water to remove any loose scales or debris that may have accumulated during the cleaning process.
To store the mackerel, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the fish and consume it within 24-48 hours for optimal freshness.
Cleaning a mackerel may seem like a daunting task, but with these simple steps, you can easily master the process. Remember to maintain cleanliness and caution throughout, and enjoy the flavorful rewards of your freshly cleaned mackerel in your next culinary creation.