Crispy Air Fryer Herring Fillet with Zesty Lemon
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat15gram
Protein22gram
Ingredients
- Herring fillets (fresh or thawed from frozen, firm and fresh smelling)4 pieces
- Lemon (fresh, for zest and juice)1 piece
- Olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)1 tbsp
- Garlic powder1 tsp
- Salt (preferably sea salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)0.5 tsp
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)1 tbsp
This recipe offers a simple and foolproof way to cook herring fillets to crispy perfection using an air fryer, enhanced with a fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright flavor. The total ingredient cost is approximately $8 USD / €7.5 / £6 / ₹600. The dish is approximately 250 kcal per serving, high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, suitable for a pescatarian diet. It's easy in complexity and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking. The air fryer method provides a healthier alternative to frying, using minimal oil while achieving a deliciously crispy texture.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the seasoning and lemon
1Wash and dry the lemon thoroughly. Use a fine grater to zest the lemon skin, avoiding the bitter white pith. Then, cut the lemon in half and squeeze out the juice into a small bowl. Set both zest and juice aside. This adds fresh citrus brightness to the herring.
Season the herring fillets
2Pat the herring fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this helps them crisp up in the air fryer. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides.
Preheat the air fryer
3Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and preheat it for 5 minutes. Preheating helps the herring cook evenly and attain a crispy exterior.
Arrange and cook the fillets
4Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side down if skin is on. Avoid overcrowding, so the hot air can circulate. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through if your air fryer requires it. The herring should reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) to be safe and fully cooked. You can check this with a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
Add lemon juice and serve
5After cooking, drizzle the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over the hot fillets. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Cooking Tips
-Use fresh herring fillets with a firm texture and a mild sea smell — avoid any fish that smells overly fishy or sour.
-If you don't have a food thermometer, check doneness by cutting into a fillet; cooked fish will be opaque and flake easily.
-For a spicier kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
-Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and avoid soggy fillets.
-Always wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw fish to prevent cross-contamination.
Equipment needed
- Air fryer
- Fine grater or zester
- Small bowl
- Food thermometer (recommended for safety)
- Kitchen tongs or spatula
- Paper towels
Grocery shopping list
- [ ] Fresh herring fillets (4 pieces, around 150-200g each) - approx. $6
- Choose fillets that look shiny, moist, and smell fresh, not fishy or sour.
- [ ] Fresh lemon (1 piece) - approx. $0.5
- Pick firm lemons with bright yellow skin, free of blemishes.
- [ ] Olive oil (extra virgin, small bottle) - approx. $2 (you will only use 1 tbsp)
- Opt for cold-pressed extra virgin for best flavor.
- [ ] Garlic powder (small jar) - approx. $1 (used sparingly)
- [ ] Salt (sea salt preferred) - approx. $1 (small pack)
- [ ] Black pepper (freshly ground if possible) - approx. $1 (small jar)
- [ ] Fresh parsley (optional) - approx. $0.7
Total approximate cost: $8 - $10, may vary based on location and store prices.
FAQ
Can I use frozen herring fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen herring fillets. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking in the air fryer.
How do I know when the herring is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a food thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F). Alternatively, the fish should be opaque, and it should flake easily when tested with a fork.
Can I substitute lemon with lime or vinegar?
Yes, lime juice can be a great substitute for lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor. Vinegar is more acidic and strong, so use sparingly if substituting.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can cook the seasoned herring fillets in a well-oiled non-stick pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through and crispy, or bake in an oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes.