Crispy Air Fryer Hake Fillet with Creamy Gravy
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs8gram
Fat15gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Hake fillets (fresh or thawed) - look for firm, moist fillets without a strong fishy smell400 g
- Olive oil1 tbsp
- Saltto taste n/a
- Black pepperto taste n/a
- Garlic powder1 tsp
- Paprika1 tsp
- Butter2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour2 tbsp
- Milk (preferably whole milk)250 ml
- Chicken or vegetable stock100 ml
- Onion (finely chopped)1 piece
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional)1 tbsp
This recipe teaches you how to make perfectly crispy hake fillets using an air fryer and serve them with a smooth, flavorful creamy gravy. Using the air fryer means less oil and quicker cooking, while keeping the fish tender and flaky. The total cost of ingredients is approximately 8 USD, 7.5 EUR, 6.5 GBP, and 650 INR. The entire dish contains about 350 kcal per serving and suits a low-carb and gluten-free diet. The recipe is easy in complexity, perfect for beginner cooks, and only requires about 15 minutes of active preparation and 12 minutes of cooking time.
Preparation instructions
Preheat the air fryer
1Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve a crispy exterior on the hake fillets.
Prepare the hake fillets
2Pat the hake fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the fillets crisp up nicely. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Season the fillets
3Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over both sides of the hake. This simple seasoning enhances the fish's mild flavor.
Arrange fillets in air fryer basket
4Place the hake fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Cook the hake fillets
5Cook the fillets in the air fryer at 200°C (390°F) for 10-12 minutes. Check at 10 minutes; the internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F) for safe consumption. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Prepare the gravy base
6While the fish cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
Make the roux
7Add the flour to the butter and onion mixture. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, forming a roux that will thicken the gravy.
Add liquids for the gravy
8Gradually whisk in the milk and stock to the roux. Continue stirring to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Season and finish the gravy
9Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped fresh parsley if using for a touch of color and freshness.
Serve
10Plate the crispy hake fillets and generously spoon the creamy gravy over them. Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips
1Always use a food thermometer to ensure fish reaches 63°C (145°F) internally for safety.
2Patting the fish dry before seasoning and air frying helps achieve a crispy crust.
3If you prefer a thinner gravy, add more milk or stock gradually until desired consistency.
4You can substitute hake with cod or pollock, but adjust cooking time as these can vary in thickness.
5Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning.
Equipment needed
- Air fryer
- Digital food thermometer
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife and chopping board
- Spoon or spatula
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] 400g Hake fillets (~$5) - Choose fresh fillets that smell like the ocean, not fishy
- [ ] Olive oil (~$0.20 for 1 tbsp) - Extra virgin for best flavor
- [ ] Salt & black pepper (pantry staples)
- [ ] Garlic powder (~$0.10 for 1 tsp)
- [ ] Paprika (~$0.10 for 1 tsp) - Smoked paprika can add smoky flavor
- [ ] Butter (~$0.30 for 2 tbsp) - Unsalted butter preferred for control
- [ ] All-purpose flour (~$0.05 for 2 tbsp)
- [ ] Milk (~$0.50 for 250 ml) - Whole milk for creaminess
- [ ] Chicken or vegetable stock (~$0.50 for 100 ml) - Use low sodium if possible
- [ ] 1 onion (~$0.30) - Choose firm onions without soft spots
- [ ] Fresh parsley (~$0.20 for 1 tbsp) - Optional for garnish
Total approximate cost: $7 - $8
FAQ
Can I use frozen hake fillets?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat dry them before cooking to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
How do I know when hake fillet is cooked?
The fillet should be opaque, flake easily with a fork, and reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
Can I make the gravy dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and a vegetable stock.
Can I cook other fish in the air fryer with this method?
Absolutely! Cod, pollock, or tilapia can be cooked similarly. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.