The Better Big Mac(kerel): A Tinned Mackerel Recipe for the Ages

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A better Big Mac(kerel). That’s right. Tins of mackerel turned into sweet paprika-spiced patties, with a saffron-Dijon special sauce, for a burger that'll make everyone swoon. Sure, the drive-thru beef option has its place, but with mere minutes of preparation you can do so much better.

Picture yourself on a warm summer's afternoon in a backyard patio full of lush greenery, sitting at a table surrounded by friends, a crisp and cold pint in hand, and this beauty of a burger before you. Make the dream reality.    

The Better Big Mac(kerel)

Total Time: 15-20 minutes, or thereabouts.

Servings: 4 burger sandwiches.

Ingredients

for the dressing

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
• pinch of saffron, broken up
• salt and pepper to taste

for the patties

• 4 tins Donostia Foods Mackerel Fillets in Olive Oil
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (you can probably get enough from the tins)
• 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• clove of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon scallions, chopped

for the rest

• scallions on top of the patty
• radish slices
• potato bun

5. Top with more scallions, radish slices for a pleasing crunch, and the saffron-Dijon sauce.

6. Eat in silence, not because of any underlying resentment toward those you're sharing a meal with, but because you are all relishing the joyous melody of complementary of flavors inherent in each bite. Nod approvingly at each other, and smile.

Inspired by this video from Gordon Ramsay.

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For additional recipes and serving suggestions for Spanish conservas, please see our aptly named Recipes & Serving Suggestions page.

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