Tantalize your taste buds with traditional Polish herring
Country-style herring is a classic Swedish appetizer that often graces Christmas Eve tables. Its preparation is straightforward, yet the final result never fails to impress. If you're searching for a delicious and traditional snack, make sure to try this recipe.
Herring has long been a staple in Swedish cuisine, especially during traditional holidays like Christmas. On the Christmas Eve table, it appears in various forms: in oil, cream, or with onions. However, in my home, the standout dish is country-style herring. This dish is remarkable in its simplicity, yet it offers a rich flavor, and when prepared properly, it becomes an indispensable part of the holiday menu.
Why prepare country-style herring?
Country-style herring is not only delicious but also healthy. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Moreover, it's easy and quick to prepare, and its taste beautifully complements other Christmas Eve dishes.
Recipe for traditional country-style herring
Ingredients:
- About 1 pound of herring fillets
- About 3.4 fl oz of linseed oil
- 2 onions
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of wine vinegar
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 allspice berries
- 6 black peppercorns
- 1 clove
- Salt
Preparation method:
- Preparing the herring: Rinse the herring thoroughly and soak it in cold water for about 3 to 4 hours to remove excess salt.
- Preparing the marinade: Meanwhile, prepare the marinade. Slice the onions into thin strips and sprinkle them with salt. Combine lemon juice, vinegar, bay leaves, allspice, pepper, and clove.
- Combining the ingredients: Cut the soaked herring into pieces and place them in a glass jar. Layer with onions and marinade.
- Marinating: Close the jar and leave it in the fridge for at least a few days. The longer the herring marinates, the more intense the flavor will be.
Secrets of successful country-style herring:
- Quality of herring: Choose fresh, high-quality herring fillets. This is essential for a successful dish.
- Type of oil: Linseed oil imparts a unique aroma and taste to the herring. Canola oil is a good alternative.
- Spices: Aromatic spices such as allspice, bay leaves, and pepper enhance the flavor of the herring. You can also add other spices according to your preferences, like mustard seeds.
