Crispy Asian-Style Air Fryer Herring Fillets
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat15gram
Protein20gram
Ingredients
- Fresh herring fillets (skin-on, boneless if possible)400 g
- Soy sauce (preferably low sodium for a healthier option)2 tbsp
- Minced garlic (freshly minced for best flavor)2 cloves
- Grated fresh ginger1 tbsp
- Honey or brown sugar1 tbsp
- Sesame oil1 tbsp
- Rice vinegar1 tbsp
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)2 tbsp
- Sesame seeds (toasted)1 tsp
- Cooking spray or a little oil (for air fryer basket)as needed n/a
This recipe guides you through preparing flavorful Asian-style herring fillets using an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and perfectly cooked, tender fish inside. The dish is seasoned with a combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, bringing a delightful Asian flair. Ingredients cost is approximately $8 / €7.5 / £6.5 / ₹650 for 2 servings. Each serving provides around 250 calories. This recipe suits pescatarian diets, is easy to prepare, and takes about 35 minutes total including marinating.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the marinade
1In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir well until the honey dissolves fully. This marinade imparts a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors to your herring.
Marinate the herring
2Place the herring fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb into the fish.
Preheat the air fryer
3Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures an even cooking temperature from the start, resulting in a crispier fillet.
Prepare air fryer basket
4Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a little oil to prevent sticking. Handling the basket carefully helps keep your fish intact and ensures easy cleanup.
Air fry the fillets
5Arrange the marinated herring fillets in a single layer in the basket, skin side down. Cook for 10-12 minutes at 180°C (350°F). Halfway through (around 6 minutes), carefully flip the fillets to ensure even cooking and crispiness on both sides.
Check for doneness and safe temperatures
6Herring is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) as measured with a food thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet to verify. This ensures the fish is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Serve
7Carefully transfer the cooked fillets to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a fresh and nutty finish. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips
-Choose fresh herring fillets that smell clean and have firm flesh to ensure freshness and the best flavor.
-If you can’t find fresh herring, frozen fillets can be used; just thaw completely before marinating and cooking.
-Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to promote even cooking and crispiness.
-Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures for food safety — always clean it between uses to avoid cross-contamination.
-You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Equipment needed
- Air fryer
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Food thermometer (recommended for safety)
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Fresh herring fillets (400 g) - approx. $5: Choose firm, shiny fillets with a clean ocean smell.
- [ ] Soy sauce (small bottle) - approx. $2: Opt for low sodium if possible.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (1 bulb) - approx. $0.50: Use fresh cloves for the best pungent flavor.
- [ ] Fresh ginger (small piece) - approx. $0.50: Pick firm, unwrinkled ginger root.
- [ ] Honey or brown sugar - approx. $1 (small jar): Honey adds a nice sweetness and glaze.
- [ ] Sesame oil (small bottle) - approx. $3: Adds a distinctive nutty flavor.
- [ ] Rice vinegar (small bottle) - approx. $2: Provides bright acidity.
- [ ] Green onions (1 bunch) - approx. $1: Use fresh and crisp ones for garnish.
- [ ] Sesame seeds (small pack) - approx. $1: Toast lightly for best aroma.
Total approximate cost: $8 (costs vary locally)
FAQ
Can I use frozen herring fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen herring fillets. Be sure to thaw them thoroughly in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and best texture.
How do I know when herring is fully cooked?
The herring is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). Using a food thermometer is the safest method to ensure doneness.
Can I substitute soy sauce with something else?
Yes, tamari sauce is a great gluten-free alternative, and coconut aminos can be used for a soy-free option. Both will provide a similar savory flavor.
How can I avoid the fish sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking oil before placing the fillets. Also, avoid overcrowding and flipping the fillets gently to prevent sticking and breaking.
Is it safe to eat the skin-on herring?
Yes, the skin is edible and crisps up nicely in the air fryer, adding flavor and texture. Just ensure the fish is cooked to the safe internal temperature.