Steamed Salted Mackerel (Xian Yu)

Rinse the salted mackerel thoroughly under cold running water to remove any surface salt and impurities.

Soak the salted mackerel in a bowl of fresh cold water for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on its initial saltiness. Change the water once during this period to further desalinate.

Drain the salted mackerel and pat it completely dry with paper towels.