From the frying pan at home to a freshly made sandwich by the waterfront in Kristiansand.
There is a scent that makes many people in Southern Norway smile with anticipation: the smell of freshly fried mackerel. When the mackerel arrives in spring, it feels as if the whole region comes to life. A sure sign that summer is on its way is when someone says: «The mackerel is here!»
Photo:
Iselinn Andersen // Visit Sørlandet
The Coastal Fish of Southern Norway
Mackerel is both beautiful and delicious, known for its distinctive flavour. It is also one of the healthiest fish you can eat, rich in omega-3 and protein, with a natural juiciness that makes it perfect for frying, grilling, smoking, sushi and soups.
In spring, the mackerel fishing season begins along the coast of Southern Norway. In the past, the fishing boats were so tightly packed between the piers in Kristiansand harbour that people said you could walk from boat to boat without getting your feet wet. Today the fishery is smaller, but the taste of mackerel from Southern Norway remains an unforgettable part of summer for many visitors.
Mackerel on the Menu
Would you like to enjoy the taste of mackerel without frying or grilling it yourself? Visit Reinhartsen at Fiskebrygga in Kristiansand. Here you can buy freshly prepared fish dishes ready to enjoy on the spot, including their popular mackerel sandwich made with hot smoked mackerel, fresh toppings and good bread. It is a perfect lunch by the waterfront, with views of boats and the sound of seagulls overhead.
If you would like to prepare it yourself, try Reinhartsen’s own hot smoked mackerel. It is traditionally smoked in their in house smokehouse, the only one in the Kristiansand area. The warm smoke gives the fish a rich and delicate flavour that has received several awards, including the Norwegian specialty label from Matmerk and multiple medals in the Norwegian Seafood Championships.
Want to try it yourself? Explore the chef’s three mackerel recipes:
Photo:
Iselinn Andersen // Visit Sørlandet
1. Pan Fried Mackerel with Traditional Sides
The mackerel:
Clean and fillet the mackerel, or use ready made fillets. Pat them dry with kitchen paper.
Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
Heat butter in a frying pan. Fry the fillets skin side down first, about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Do not cook it too hard. Mackerel is a fatty fish and does not need much heat. You can also cook the mackerel on the grill.
Cucumber salad
Slice the cucumber thinly using a knife or mandoline.
Mix 1 part vinegar, 1 part sugar and 2-3 parts water. Season with salt and pepper and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Let the cucumber rest in the mixture for at least 15-30 minutes before serving, preferably longer.
Serve the mackerel hot with cucumber salad, sour cream and boiled potatoes. For a more modern version, you can serve it with potato salad. A simple fresh green salad also works well on the side.
Photo:
Iselinn Andersen // Visit Sørlandet
2. Sandwich with Smoked Mackerel and Cucumber Salad
Brioche burger bun or other soft bread rolls
50 - 75 g hot smoked mackerel (available at Reinhartsen)
½ red onion, thinly sliced, preferably pickled red onion
1 small handful of crisp lettuce or mixed leaf salad
½ cucumber, thinly sliced (prepared like a cucumber salad if you prefer)
4 tbsp creamy dressing, for example aioli, sour cream dressing or mustard mayonnaise
A little herb dressing or oil with chopped herbs
Tip:On some days you can buy this delicious sandwich ready made at Bryggekjøkkenet at Fiskebrygga. For the full experience, enjoy it with fries by the waterfront.
Photo:
Iselinn Andersen // Visit Sørlandet
3. Mackerel on Bread
You might think mackerel on bread simply means mackerel in tomato sauce. Not quite. Hot smoked mackerel served on a good slice of bread is a wonderful summer dish.
Good bread, such as white bread, sourdough or country bread, lightly toasted
Hot smoked mackerel
Crisp lettuce or baby gem lettuce
Cucumber slices
Creamy dressing, for example aioli, sour cream dressing or mustard mayonnaise
A few drops of lemon
Tip:
The dressing can be made by mixing mayonnaise and sour cream with a little lemon, mustard and herbs.
You can also replace the mackerel with smoked salmon or cured fish if you would like some variety.
Perfect for a picnic or as a light summer meal.
7 Tips for Summer Visitors in Southern Norway:
1. Taste local seafood fresh from the sea
Visit Reinhartsen at Fiskebrygga in Kristiansand, a traditional fish shop known for its award winning seafood. Try their hot smoked mackerel, prepared in their own smokehouse.
2. Enjoy lunch by the waterfront
Buy a mackerel sandwich or the popular “Piratburger” at Reinhartsen. It is freshly prepared and perfect to enjoy by the harbour while watching the boats and soaking up the summer sun.
3. Try a classic at home
Buy fresh mackerel and prepare pan fried mackerel with cucumber salad and sour cream, a simple and traditional dish from Southern Norway. Feel free to ask in the shop. Reinhartsen is happy to share tips and recipes.
4. Take the flavours of Southern Norway home
They also sell house made smoked salmon, fish cakes and shellfish you can bring with you on your journey or take home as a delicious souvenir.
5. Learn more about seafood
Check if there are filleting demonstrations or seafood events taking place. It is perfect if you want to learn how to fillet mackerel or become more confident preparing fish.
6. Enjoy the best mackerel of the season
Drift net mackerel caught in May and June is considered the most delicate, while autumn mackerel (August-September) is ideal for smoking. Ask what is freshest when you visit the shop.
7. Eat with a clear conscience
Mackerel is a healthy and sustainable fish - rich in omega-3 and protein, caught along the coast of Southern Norway.
