Danish pickled herring

danish_pickled_herring

Scandinavian cuisine is renowned for its fresh, uncomplicated dishes that make full use of local ingredients. One of the most beloved dishes of the region is pickled herring, a tasty and healthy dish that has been a staple of Scandinavian cuisine for centuries. The dish is particularly popular in Denmark, where it is known as sild or sild i eddike and is served at festive occasions and celebrations.

Pickled herring may sound like an acquired taste; however, its unique flavor and texture make it a beloved delicacy among those who have tried it. The dish is made by marinating fresh herring in a vinegar and sugar-based sauce known as pickling brine. The fish is then left to pickle for several days, absorbing the flavors of the brine and becoming tender and flavorful.

Pickled herring is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways, from traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to as a side dish or even as a topping for salads. In Denmark, pickled herring is often served with boiled potatoes, raw onions and a sprinkle of fresh dill. This makes for a fresh and healthy meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

To prepare pickled herring, one can either purchase fresh herring or buy pre-pickled herring from a local Scandinavian specialty store. For those who prefer the former, good quality fresh herring is typically available at fishmongers or larger grocery stores.

The first step in preparing the recipe is to clean and fillet the fresh herring, removing the head, tail, and bones. Once cleaned, the fish is then cut into bite-sized pieces and placed in a container with a tight-fitting lid.

Next, the pickling brine is prepared by mixing vinegar, sugar, salt, and various seasonings including bay leaves, peppercorns, and allspice berries. This mixture is brought to a boil, and once the sugar has dissolved, it is left to cool.

When the pickling brine has cooled, it is poured over the fish, covering it completely. The container is then sealed tightly and left to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 days. During this time, the fish will absorb the pickling flavors, becoming tender and flavorful.

As mentioned earlier, pickled herring is often served with boiled potatoes, raw onions, and dill. To achieve this, the potatoes are boiled until tender, then sliced into thin rounds. Next, the raw onions are sliced into thin rounds and the fresh dill is finely chopped. Finally, the pickled herring is removed from the container, drained, and arranged on a platter with the other ingredients.

Pickled herring is an acquired taste, but those who love it swear by its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. The dish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, and is a great source of protein. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

In conclusion, pickled herring is a beloved Scandinavian delicacy that is as flavorful as it is healthy. The dish is easy to make and versatile in its serving options. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making it yourself and enjoy a taste of Denmark at home? Trust us; your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds fresh herring fillets
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice berries
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 small carrot, thinly sliced
  • 1 small celery stalk, thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the herring fillets under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. Cut the fillets into bite sized pieces and arrange in a non-reactive container with a tight fitting lid.

  3. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, peppercorns, coriander seeds, allspice berries, and bay leaf.

  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt.

  5. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.

  6. Add the sliced onion, carrot, and celery to the pickling liquid, stirring to combine.

  7. Pour the pickling liquid over the herring fillets, making sure they are completely covered.

  8. Refrigerate the container for at least 24 hours before serving.

  9. The pickled herring can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

  10. Serve the pickled herring with boiled potatoes, crisp bread, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh dill or chopped chives, if desired. Enjoy!