Step 1: Rinse the Fish – Rinse the salted mackerel with lime or lemon under running water to remove any visible salt on the surface. This helps clean the fish before boiling and removes excess salt from the outside.

Step 2: Boil the Fish – Place the salted mackerel in a large pot and fill the pot about three-quarters of the way with water. Set it over high heat and bring it to a full boil. Boil for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3: Check the Saltiness – After the first boil, remove a small piece and taste it carefully. If it is still too salty for your liking, drain the pot, refill it with fresh water, and boil the fish again for another 5 to 10 minutes. Do not overcook it.

Step 4: Clean and Break Up the Fish – Drain the fish and rinse lightly. Remove the head and any large bones. Using your fingers, separate the flesh into medium chunks. Do not break it up too fine. Keep it slightly chunky for better texture and appearance, since it will continue to break apart slightly during cooking. You may leave the skin on or remove it based on your preference.

Step 5: Heat the Oil – Wipe out the same pot if you want to continue using it, or use a wide saucepan. Add the olive oil and set it over medium heat until warm.

Step 6: Cook the Onion and Pepper – Add the sliced onion and hot pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring, until the onion begins to soften. Do not let it brown.

Step 7: Add the Aromatics – Add the chopped tomatoes, crushed garlic, thyme leaves, and optional green seasoning. Stir well and cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices while the garlic and herbs become fragrant.

Step 8: Add the Coconut Milk – If using coconut milk, pour it in now and stir to combine. Let it cook for about 1 minute so it blends into the tomato base.

Step 9: Add the Fish and Scallions – Add the prepared salted mackerel along with the chopped scallions. Gently fold everything together so the fish is coated in the sauce without breaking it up too much.

Step 10: Add Water for More Sauce (Optional) – If you want your salted mackerel with tomatoes a little saucier, add 1 to 2 cups of hot water at this stage. Stir gently to combine.

Step 11: Simmer the Dish – Raise the heat to medium-high for about 1 minute to bring everything together, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes so the fish absorbs the flavor of the sauce and the dish settles into a balanced consistency.

Step 12: Taste and Finish – Taste and add black pepper as needed. Add extra salt only if necessary, since the fish already carries salt. Serve hot.