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Substitutes for Mackerel in Cooking and Marinades

7 Best Substitutes for Mackerel

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Mackerel's oily texture and bold flavor can be replaced by several fish and vegan options depending on the dish. Sardines and herring offer similar oily richness, while salmon provides a milder profile. For vegan alternatives, jackfruit with seaweed or tofu marinated in seaweed broth provide flaky texture and umami depth.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Kitchen Tips, Substitutes
Cuisine: Various
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Sardines Use 1:1 by weight as a direct substitute.
  • 1 cup Herring Use 1:1 by weight; saltier than mackerel.
  • 1 cup Salmon Use 1:1 by weight; milder and less oily flavor.
  • 1 cup Canned Tuna in Oil Use 1:1 by volume for cold preparations.
  • 1 cup Jackfruit cooked with seaweed Use 1:1 by volume after draining and cooking with seaweed for umami.
  • 1 cup Smoked Trout Use 1:1 by weight; milder smoky flavor.
  • 1 cup Tofu marinated in seaweed broth 1 cup firm tofu plus ¼ cup seaweed broth; marinate at least 2 hours.

Method
 

  1. Choose the substitute based on dish type: sardines or salmon for grilling, herring or smoked trout for smoked dishes, canned tuna for cold salads, jackfruit or tofu for vegan options.
  2. Prepare the substitute: drain canned fish or jackfruit; marinate tofu in seaweed broth for best flavor.
  3. Use the substitute in a 1:1 ratio by weight or volume according to the substitute's notes.
  4. Adjust seasoning to compensate for differences in saltiness or oiliness, especially with herring or tofu.
  5. Taste final dish and ensure desired texture and flavor balance; add oils if needed for mouthfeel.

Notes

  • Use sardines for the closest oily and fishy intensity match.
  • Marinate tofu and cook jackfruit with seaweed for better umami depth in vegan dishes.
  • Adjust seasoning especially with saltier herring or milder salmon to preserve flavor balance.

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