Does Mackerel Have Scales? Yes, mackerels have cycloid scales. The scales are tiny in size and feel velvety if you touch them. You may not notice their presence on the belly with your bare eyes because of their small size. These small scales form altocumulus clouds and give them a beautiful look resembling the sky.
Scales play a crucial role in mackerel’s life. These scales formed from bones provide them protection from harsh environments, parasites, and other predators. Some scales are used by humans to make various types of medicines.
Mackerel scales are edible. You need to wash and cook them properly. You can also remove them if you want. Avoid trying to eat them raw as the scales are slimy and not edible or safe to eat raw.
What Does Mackerel Scales Look Like?
The scales of mackerel are very small except for the ones that are near the head and pectoral fins. Mackerel have cycloid scales, which are smooth-edged and round. They provide both flexibility and reduce drag in the water.
The scales are arranged in overlapping rows. It creates a protective layer on their skin. Scale color for mackerel can vary for different species, such as silvery hues, blue, green, etc. Mackerels can also use their scales for camouflage, which often comes in handy for protection from predators.
Additionally, mackerel scales can often reflect light in open water. This feature gives them a shiny look and also helps them evade predators.
Advantages of Having Scales for Mackerel
The presence of scales is beneficial for mackerel in various ways. It aids the fish to survive in the aquatic environment in different ways.
- The scales in mackerel form an overlapping layer of bond and serve as a protective layer on their skin. The scales often shield the fish from potential threats and injuries.
- Cycloid scales of mackerel fish contribute to their thermoregulation. The fish can maintain its internal temperature in different water conditions.
- These scales reduce the drag of the water when the fish is swimming. It creates a hydrodynamic efficiency, which is crucial for the fish’s movement.
- The different colors and structures of scales help identify the different species of mackerel.
- Scales form an outer barrier around the main body of the fish. This barrier helps prevent the entry of parasites and pathogens. It contributes to the overall health and disease resistance of the fish.
How to Remove Mackerel Scales?
Mackerel is a delicious fish. You need to remove the scales for the best taste. Removing the scales is an easy process. Here is how you can do it:
- Place a newspaper over your cutting board. It will prevent the fish from slipping.
- Scrub the body of the fish with the tip of the knife. Move the knife from the tail to the head. The scales will be coming off.
- The scute, which is a hard curved scale, of mackerel may not come off with scrubbing only. Make a small, angled cut with the tip of your knife and scrape off the scutes.
How to Cook Mackerel Scales?
Along with the fish, you can also cook the scales of mackerel fish. Deep frying them is a tasty way of consuming them.
- Rinse the fish thoroughly and pull off all the scales with a knife or scalar.
- You can add salt and your preferred spices. You can also add your choice of herbs to season the mackerel scales.
- Place the mackerel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the scales are crispy and the fish is cooked through.
- You can also cook the scales using a grill. In that case, you can place the mackerel directly on the gates. Grill for approximately 8-10 minutes per side. Wait until the scales are crisp and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- After the cooking is done, you can serve the scales with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or other add-ons.
Health Benefits of Eating Mackerel Scales
Most people do not eat fish scales. They just throw it in the trash bin. But medical science says there are a number of benefits of eating fish scales.
1. Good Source of Protein
The scales, just like the fish itself, are a good source of dietary protein. Protein is the building block of cells and tissues and is essential for growth. The protein found in fish helps reduce the risk of certain disorders like stunted growth, low iron levels, and swelling of the body. Besides, protein plays a crucial role in strengthening immunity.
2. High in Omega 3
Omega03 fatty acids are beneficial for heart health, eye health, joint health, and brain function. Fish scales contain a good amount of omega-3 nutrients.
3. Supports Your Skin Health
Another important benefit of consuming it is that it can support your skin health. Mackerel skins contain vitamin E and collagen. They improve your skin’s condition by reducing wrinkles, elasticity, and dehydration. Vitamin E saves your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
FAQs
Are mackerel kosher fish?
Yes, mackerel is considered kosher. It has scales and fins to meet the requirements for kosher seafood. Though there can be specific requirements for different communities, the presence of scales and fins mostly pass them as kosher.
What other fishes have similar scales to mackerel?
Mackerel have cycloid scales, which can be commonly found in different other fishes. Tuna, bonito, kingfish, herring, anchovy, sardines, bluefish, Atlantic menhaden, etc., all have cycloid scales like mackerel.
How often can I eat mackerel skin?
Eating mackerel scales sometimes is beneficial for your health. You should not eat mackerel skin on a regular basis. The scales of this fish are high in mercury and excess consumption of mercury is harmful for your health.
Can mackerels be cooked with scales on them?
You can cook mackerels without removing the scales. However, this makes the cooking difficult, and the taste is often not preferred by food enthusiasts. Removing the scales makes seasoning easy and helps in the absorption of flavors during cooking.
Can you eat mackerel scales?
Mackerel scales are safe to consume. However, the texture and tough composition of the scales make them not palatable. You will enjoy the taste of the fish better without the scales on it.
Conclusion
Mackerels have scales, which help the fish maintain body temperature and swim comfortably. It also protects them from challenging environments and predators. The scales are edible, though the fish tastes better without them.
