Crispy Air Fryer Whole Herring: Quick & Easy Delight
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat25gram
Protein20gram
Ingredients
- Whole fresh herring, cleaned and gutted (choose firm, fresh fish with a mild sea smell)2 pieces
- Olive oil (helps crisp the skin)1 tbsp
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)1 tbsp
- Garlic powder (adds savory flavor)0.5 tsp
- Salt (prefer sea salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper, freshly ground0.5 tsp
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)1 tbsp
This recipe shows you how to cook whole herring easily and quickly in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy and flavorful fish that’s perfect for a light meal or appetizer. Using common ingredients and simple techniques, it's ideal for home cooks of any skill level. The total ingredient cost is approximately $8 USD (7,50€ / £6.50 / ₹650), and the dish offers about 350 kcal per serving. This recipe suits pescatarian and gluten-free diets. The cooking process is straightforward with a low complexity level and takes 25 minutes total (10 minutes preparation and 15 minutes cooking).
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Fish
1Pat the whole herring dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
Season the Herring
2Brush the herring lightly with olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly on the fish. Drizzle lemon juice over the fish.
Preheat the Air Fryer
3Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and preheat for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking.
Cook the Herring
4Place the whole herring in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes at 200°C, flipping halfway through at 7 minutes to ensure even crispiness on both sides.
Check Doneness and Safety
5The herring is done when the skin is crispy and flesh flakes easily with a fork. The safe internal temperature for fish is at least 63°C (145°F); use a food thermometer to check at the thickest part inside the fish.
Serve
6Carefully remove the herring from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cooking Tips
-If you prefer, you can stuff the herring cavity with lemon slices or herbs like dill for extra flavor.
-Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and crispiness.
-Fish is highly perishable; always store herring in the refrigerator and use it within 1-2 days of purchase.
-Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw fish and other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Paper towels
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon
- Food thermometer (recommended)
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole fresh herring (approx. 2 pieces) - Around $5. Choose fish that is firm with clear eyes and fresh smell.
- [ ] Olive oil (you need 1 tbsp) - Approx. $0.50 from a bottle. Pick extra virgin for best flavor.
- [ ] Lemon (one for juice and garnish) - Approx. $0.50. Choose firm, bright yellow lemons.
- [ ] Garlic powder (small container) - Approx. $1. Available in most supermarkets.
- [ ] Salt (sea salt preferred) - Approx. $0.20 from bulk packages.
- [ ] Black pepper (ground) - Approx. $1.50 for a jar.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (small bunch) - Approx. $1. Avoid wilted or yellow leaves.
Total approximate cost: $8
FAQ
Can I use frozen herring instead of fresh?
Yes, if using frozen herring, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for best results and food safety.
How do I know when the herring is fully cooked?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of at least 63°C (145°F). The skin should be crispy.
Can I add other seasonings to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add herbs like dill or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix to vary the flavor.
Is air frying healthier than traditional frying?
Yes, air frying uses less oil and still produces a crispy texture, making it a healthier option.