Smoked Mackerel Pate
Introduction
Smoked Mackerel Pate is an easy-to-make, delicious and nutritious dish that combines the smoky flavour of smoked mackerel with cream cheese, lemon juice, capers, parsley, dill, and other herbs and spices. This creamy pate is perfect for a light lunch, snack, or appetizer. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ease of Preparation
Smoked Mackerel Pate is a quick and easy dish to prepare. All you need to do is combine all the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. The dish takes only minutes to make and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Smoked Mackerel Pate is a healthy dish that is high in protein and low in fat. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. One serving of Smoked Mackerel Pate provides approximately:
Calories: 200
Protein: 20g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fibre: 2g
Ingredients
-Smoked mackerel fillets
-Cream cheese
-Lemon juice
-Capers
-Chopped fresh parsley
-Chopped fresh dill
-Salt and pepper to taste
-Optional: Chopped red onion, garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, or other herbs and spices to taste
Preparation Method
- Place the smoked mackerel fillets in a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Add the cream cheese, lemon juice, capers, parsley, dill, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until combined.
- Add the optional ingredients, if desired. Blend until combined.
- Transfer the pate to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Tips
-For a more intense smoky flavour, use smoked mackerel fillets with the skin on.
-If the pate is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
-For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or horseradish to the pate.
Flavour/Taste
Smoked Mackerel Pate has a rich, smoky flavour that is complemented by the creamy texture of the cream cheese. The capers, parsley, and dill add a bright and fresh flavour to the pate. The optional ingredients can be added to customize the flavour of the dish.
Best Dishes Paired With
Smoked Mackerel Pate is best served with crackers, toast points, or fresh vegetables. It can also be served as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Origin of Dish and History
Smoked Mackerel Pate is a traditional dish from the United Kingdom. It is believed to have originated in the 16th century when smoked fish was a popular dish that was served to the upper classes.
Popular Alternatives
If you don’t have access to smoked mackerel, you can use canned tuna or salmon in place of the mackerel. You can also substitute cream cheese for ricotta or Greek yoghurt for a lighter version of the pate. Other herbs and spices can also be added to customize the flavour of the dish.