Immerse yourself in the savory and refreshing flavors of Poland with this traditional Polish-style Herring recipe. Known locally as "Śledź po Polsku," this dish combines the rich, silky textures of herring with a blend of aromatic spices and a tangy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, this recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients creating extraordinary taste.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Prep
time: 20 minutes
- Marinate
time: 12 hours
- Total
time: 12 hours 20 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings:
4
- Serving
size: 2 herring fillets per person
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories:
190
- Protein:
14g
- Fat:
10g (of which Saturated: 2g)
- Carbohydrates:
9g
- Fiber:
1g
- Sodium:
870mg
Ingredients
- Herring
fillets (skinless and boneless) - 450g (1 pound)
- White
onions - 200g (2 medium onions, thinly sliced)
- White
vinegar - 120ml (4 ounces)
- Water
- 120ml (4 ounces)
- Sugar
- 15g (1 tablespoon)
- Bay
leaves - 2
- Allspice
berries - 5
- Black
peppercorns - 10
- Fresh
dill - 20g (a small bunch, chopped)
- Extra
virgin olive oil - 60ml (2 ounces)
Method of Preparation
- In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, bay leaves, allspice berries, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- In a non-metallic dish, layer the herring fillets and sliced onions. Pour the cooled marinade over the herring, ensuring all pieces are covered. Sprinkle with chopped dill.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the herring from the marinade and arrange on a serving plate. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with extra dill or onion slices if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Freshness
Matters: Use the freshest herring you can find for the best flavor.
- Slicing
Onions: Slice the onions thinly for a delicate texture that
complements the tender herring.
- Serving
Suggestion: Serve chilled with dark rye bread or crackers to balance
the tanginess of the marinade.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use another type of vinegar?
- A1:
Yes, apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute, offering a slightly
sweeter and milder flavor.
Q2: How long can I keep the marinated herring in the refrigerator?
- A2:
Properly stored, the herring can be kept for up to one week in the
refrigerator.
Q3: Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
- A3:
This dish is high in sodium and may not be suitable for those on a
low-sodium diet. However, it is gluten-free and dairy-free.
Relish the rich heritage and robust flavors of Poland with this delightful Polish-style Herring. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a quiet night in, this dish promises a tantalizing journey for your taste buds. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the cultural tapestry that each bite brings to your table!