How to Cook Kippers in Microwave: Quick and Easy Tips

Have you ever wanted to enjoy delicious kippers without the hassle of traditional cooking methods? Well, you’re in luck! Cooking kippers in the microwave is not only fast but also incredibly simple.

The microwave method is perfect for those who live a busy lifestyle, as it takes only a few minutes to prepare and cook the kippers. Besides, it’s an inviting way to experiment with these flavorful fish without requiring extensive culinary skills.

So, are you ready to dive in and learn how to cook kippers in the microwave? Let’s get started!

First, be sure to prepare your kippers by removing any packaging, rinsing them with cold water, and then patting them dry with paper towels. Once you have done this, simply follow the easy steps provided to cook your kippers in the microwave.

Remember to handle the fish gently, taking care of the delicate flavors and textures that make kippers such a popular dish.

Table of Contents

What Are Kippers

Kippers are a type of smoked fish, specifically herring, that have been split, brined, and smoked over a fire. This traditional British dish has been enjoyed for centuries and is known for its unique flavorful taste.

The process of smoking not only adds flavor but also helps to preserve the fish. Kippers have a distinct rich and smoky taste that sets them apart from other fish varieties.

Kippers are highly nutritious, offering a range of essential nutrients, such as:

Protein: This essential nutrient is important for building and maintaining muscles, tissues, and a healthy immune system. Kippers are an excellent source of protein.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Kippers contain a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for your brain, heart, and overall well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of heart disease.
Vitamin D: This essential vitamin is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it supports a healthy immune system. Kippers are a great source of vitamin D, making them an ideal choice for those looking to meet their daily vitamin D requirements.
Calcium: Another vital nutrient for strong bones and teeth, calcium also plays a key role in muscle function and nerve signaling. Kippers provide a decent amount of calcium, making them a beneficial addition to a balanced diet.

Given their unique flavor and numerous health benefits, kippers make for an exciting and interesting meal option.

Microwave Cooking Basics

When cooking kippers in the microwave, it is essential to understand some basic microwave principles to ensure success. Follow these guidelines to prepare your kippers perfectly:

Choose the right dish: Always use a microwave-safe dish or plate to avoid damage to your microwave and ensure even cooking. Glass or ceramic plates work best.
Adjust for wattage: The wattage of your microwave plays a significant role in determining the cooking time. Find your microwave’s wattage in the user manual or on a label inside the appliance.
Mind the time: Cooking times for kippers in the microwave will generally range from 1-3 minutes, depending on your microwave’s wattage and the kippers’ size. Start with the recommended time and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Season and add water: Place kippers on the microwave-safe dish, lightly season with pepper (avoid adding salt, as kippers are already salty), and add a small splash of water to help in keeping the kipper moist during the cooking process.
Cover and cook: Cover the kippers with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel, then cook on high for the recommended 2-3 minutes, checking frequently and adjusting the time as needed based on your microwave.

Remember, microwaving kippers is a quick and convenient cooking method, but success depends on monitoring your specific microwave and adapting to its wattage and your desired level of doneness. Enjoy your delicious cooked kippers!

Preparing Kippers for Microwave Cooking

Preparing the kippers before cooking. (Credit: Paul Brighton/Canva)

First, remove the head, tail, and backbone of the kippers. To do this, use a sharp knife to carefully cut off the head and tail, taking care not to remove too much flesh. Then, for the backbone, peel it away gently to avoid breaking the kippers apart.

After preparing your kippers, it is essential to ensure they are defrosted. If you have them in the fridge, they should already be thawed.

Next, consider seasoning your kippers. Some suitable seasonings include:

A squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor
Drizzling olive oil over the fillets for moisture and richness
A sprinkling of your favorite herbs or spices for an added touch

Place them on a microwave-safe plate, taking care not to overlap the fillets. To prevent the kippers from drying out during cooking, add a splash of water or olive oil to the plate.

For an extra layer of protection, wrap the plate with cling film. This will help to trap moisture and ensure your kippers stay tender and juicy during cooking. Make sure to poke a few holes in the cling film to allow steam to escape.

Cooking Kippers in the Microwave

How Long to Cook Kippers in the Microwave

On average, it takes about 1-2 minutes for smaller kippers and 2-3 minutes for larger ones, which can be found in a step-by-step guide.

Check the wattage of your microwave to determine the appropriate cooking time.
Adjust the time as necessary, considering the size of the kippers.
Monitor the kippers frequently to prevent overcooking.

Steps

Prepare the kippers: Remove any bones and place the kippers on a microwave-safe plate.
Seasoning: Add a splash of water, and season the kippers with pepper. Kippers are usually salty, so additional salt might not be required. Optionally, you may also add a dab of butter, oil, or lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
Cover: Cover the kippers with a paper towel or microwave-safe lid.
Microwave: Cook the kippers on high heat, following the cooking time based on the wattage of your microwave, as mentioned earlier. Flip the fish if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the kippers are hot and cooked through, remove them from the microwave and serve with your preferred sides or toppings.

Remember, microwaved kippers can be a delicious and easy meal when following these simple steps. Happy cooking!

Serving and Eating Kippers

Serving Ideas

Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

Traditional British option: Serve your microwaved kipper fillets on freshly baked bread with a side of butter, and a poached egg on top.
Light and bright: Garnish your kippers with a sprinkle of parsley and a lemon wedge to bring a zesty touch to the dish.
Hearty meal: Create a plateful of flavors by pairing kippers with sautéed spinach, roasted tomatoes, and freshly ground black pepper.

Remember to adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, as kippers can have a naturally salty, flaky texture.

Are Kippers Good for You?

Some benefits of kippers include:

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Kippers are an excellent source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain diseases.
High in protein: Adding kipper fillets to your breakfast routine can provide a protein boost, keeping you full and energized throughout the day.
Easy on the environment: Kippers are a sustainable seafood option with a low impact on marine ecosystems compared to other fish species.

Cooking your kipper fillets in the microwave offers both convenience and a healthy, delicious start to your day, whether you’re in the US, UK, or anywhere else craving kippers for breakfast.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Microwaved Kippers

Storing microwaved kippers is simple, follow these steps to keep them fresh:

Allow kippers to cool down completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container, such as a resealable plastic bag.
Store in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze.

When you’re ready to serve with microwaved kippers, simply reheat following the guidelines below.

Reheating Kippers

Reheating kippers can be done in several ways.

Microwave: Place kippers in a microwave-safe dish, and cook on medium power for 1-2 minutes, until heated through. Remember to cover it with a microwave lid or cling wrap to trap the fishy smell.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place kippers on a baking sheet and warm them for about 8-10 minutes.
Grilling: For a different taste, try grilling the kippers. Lightly brush with oil and grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
Judging: For a traditional British reheat, try jugging – placing kippers in a heatproof container and pour boiling water over them. Cover and let stand for 6-8 minutes.

Remember to always check the internal temperature of your kippers and ensure they reach 145°F (63°C) before serving. Enjoy your delicious dish with your favorite sides!

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you’re looking for other ways to cook kippers besides using a microwave, there are a few easy methods you might consider:

Pan-frying is a popular choice as it can add a crispy texture to your kippers while preserving the flavor. To do this, simply heat a small amount of oil in a pan and cook the kippers for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Let’s Foodie recommends seasoning with pepper and a splash of water.
Poaching kippers is another method that provides a different taste and texture. Heat water in a pot or large frying pan and add a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor. WikiHow suggests this method to create the least amount of smell during cooking. Gently place the kippers in the simmering water, and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes.

Advantages of these methods:

Retain the flavor of the kippers
Offer a variety of textures
Easy to prepare

Overall, experiment with these alternative methods to find the perfect cooking technique for your personal taste. Remember, each technique has its own unique benefits, and you might even discover a new favorite way to enjoy kippers!