Blue mackerel and fermented chilli spaghetti… did we get your attention?
INGREDIENTS
• 400g spaghetti
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 6 medium blue mackerel fillets, (skin on), pin-boned
• 1/2 cup (125ml) white wine
• 1 cup (250ml) fish stock
• 1/2 bunch flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked, roughly chopped
• 60g unsalted butter
• Lemon wedges, to serve
FERMENTED CHILLI PASTE (MAKES APPROX. 2 CUPS – 500ML. SUBSTITUTE GOOD-QUALITY, STORE-BOUGHT CHILLI PASTE)
• 500g long red chillies, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 tsp sea salt flakes
METHOD
1. For the fermented chilli, place all the ingredients in a food processor and whiz, scraping down the sides occasionally, until a rough paste. Transfer chilli mixture to a sterilised jar with a lid and stand at room temperature (about 22°C-23°C) for 1 week. Fermented chilli can be stored in the fridge for up to one year.
2. Bring a large saucepan three-quarters full of salted water to the boil over high heat. Cook spaghetti according to packet instructions.
3. Meanwhile, heat a large non-stick, heavy-based, deep frypan with oil over high heat. Season mackerel all over then sear, skin-side down, for 1-2 minutes or until the meat just starts to cook.
4.Add 3 large tbs of chilli paste then stir frequently but gently to break up the fish slightly and prevent paste from sticking.
5. Add wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon, then add stock. When pasta is ready, add straight from the saucepan (you will need pasta water to keep the dish from drying out).
6. Reduce heat to medium and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the parsley. Season to taste. Add butter, reduce heat to low and toss the pan until butter melts and the sauce is a coating consistency. Use extra pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.
7. Season to taste and serve with lemon wedges.