Simple Air Fryer Grilled Flatfish (Kamachi)
Simple Air Fryer Grilled Flatfish (Kamachi)
How to Grill Frozen Flatfish Deliciously in an Air Fryer
Flatfish is perfect for keeping in the freezer and grilling one by one whenever you need a quick meal. It’s a fantastic side dish, especially when you’re short on time for kids’ meals, and can be alternated with grilled mackerel. This recipe ensures a tender, flavorful fish without any fishy odor, making it a hit with both children and adults. It’s a top-tier side dish for any meal!
Ingredients- 1 frozen flatfish
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil, for brushing
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The best way to thaw the frozen flatfish is to transfer it to the refrigerator the day before cooking. If you need to cook it immediately, you can soak it in cold water for about 20 minutes until thawed.
Step 2
The flatfish usually comes already cleaned of scales, fins, and innards. If there’s any remaining blood or debris inside the gills, gently rinse them under cold running water with your fingers.
Step 3
Pat the fish dry thoroughly on both sides with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a crispy skin.
Step 4
Since flatfish has very little natural seasoning, salting it before cooking is key to its flavor. Make 3-4 evenly spaced shallow cuts on both sides of the fish with a knife. These cuts help the salt penetrate evenly and make the fish look more appetizing after cooking.
Step 5
Sprinkle salt generously on both sides of the fish and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the salt to penetrate. Unseasoned fish can taste bland, especially for children, so this marinating step is highly recommended.
Step 6
Before placing the fish in the air fryer, generously brush both sides with vegetable oil. While fish like mackerel have enough natural oil to get crispy on their own, flatfish is quite lean, so brushing with oil is essential for a crispy texture.
Step 7
Place the seasoned and oiled flatfish in the air fryer basket and cook at 180°C (356°F) for 10 minutes.
Step 8
After 10 minutes, carefully flip the fish. Use a wide spatula to gently turn it over, as the flesh can be delicate and might break. Cook for another 5 minutes at 180°C (356°F). For an even crispier and browner finish, you can lightly brush with more oil at this stage or slightly increase the temperature and adjust the cooking time. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so monitor the fish and adjust as needed.
Step 9
And there you have it – perfectly tender, moist, and crispy air fryer grilled flatfish! The air fryer truly is the best tool for grilling fish. I used to struggle with oil splattering and lingering smells when using a frying pan, but ever since I discovered how easy and delicious it is in the air fryer, I never go back!
