Creamed Herring
Creamed herring offers a rich, tangy blend of pickled herring, sour cream, and citrus, perfect as an appetizer or part of a Scandinavian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle chopped onion with sugar, lemon juice, and herring liquid.
- Mix in the drained herring and sour cream.
- Let stand overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider adding a touch more sugar or using a sweeter onion variety. If you prefer a tangier taste, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. This dish can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like dill or chives. Serve it chilled for a refreshing appetizer that pairs well with crusty bread or crackers, making it a great addition to your seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamed herring as an appetizer or side dish, alongside fresh vegetables or a simple green salad. It pairs wonderfully with crusty rye bread or crackers for a delightful contrast in texture. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light soup or alongside a seafood dish like Garlic Crabs for a delicious feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the dish. To serve again, simply give it a gentle stir before enjoying it cold. Avoid reheating as the texture of the sour cream may change, and it's best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Herring contains roughly 177 calories, with 5g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herring instead of pickled?
While fresh herring can be used, it will require additional seasoning and preparation to mimic the flavor profile of pickled herring. The pickled version provides a unique tanginess that complements the dish, so if you opt for fresh, consider marinating it in vinegar or lemon juice for a similar effect.
How long should I let the dish chill before serving?
It's best to let the creamed herring chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld. However, if you're short on time, letting it sit for at least 2-4 hours in the refrigerator will still enhance the taste. Just ensure it's thoroughly chilled before serving for optimal flavor.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped capers or diced pickles for an extra punch of flavor. Some people enjoy incorporating diced apples or celery for added crunch and sweetness. Just remember to balance the flavors to maintain the dish's original character while making it your own.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).