Fred'S Famous Pickled Fish Snack

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Fred's Famous Pickled Fish Snack offers a tangy, flavorful bite with fresh fish, onion, and pickling spices, perfect for appetizer lovers or those seeking a savory snack.

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Ingredients

  • fresh fish fillets
  • 1 diced onion
  • 2 Tbsp salt
  • 7 Tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp pickling spice
  • dry white wine or apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Cut fresh fish fillets into strips or chunks.
  2. Fill a quart canning jar three-quarters full with fish and add a diced onion.
  3. Add salt, sugar, and pickling spice to the jar.
  4. Fill the jar with dry white wine or apple cider vinegar.
  5. Shake thoroughly and refrigerate for 4 days, shaking daily.
  6. Serve and enjoy once pickled.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best flavor, use fresh fish fillets from a reputable source. If you're unable to find pickling spice, you can create a blend using mustard seeds, coriander, and bay leaves. Substitute the dry white wine with apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. Ensure all ingredients are well-mixed for even pickling. This recipe is also adaptable; feel free to add garlic or chili flakes for added heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pickled fish snack as a delightful appetizer alongside crackers or crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or can be included in a seafood platter. Consider serving it with Maryland Crabcakes for a memorable meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices to enhance presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pickled fish in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can last up to two weeks. For best results, allow the fish to pickle for at least four days before consuming; this enhances the flavors. When ready to serve, remove only the portion you need to keep the remaining fish fresh.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fred'S Famous Pickled Fish Snack contains roughly 76 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1841mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).

76 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 3.8g 5% DV
Carbs 9.2g 3% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1841.5mg 80% DV
Potassium 37.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 0.9mg 1% DV
Calcium 9.7mg 1% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

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

How long can I store the pickled fish?

The pickled fish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It's important to keep it covered in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, so it's best after the initial four days of pickling, but be sure to consume it within the two-week timeframe.

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cutting them into strips or chunks. This helps the pickling solution penetrate better. Fresh fish is preferred for optimal flavor and texture, but frozen fish can work in a pinch.

What types of fish work best for pickling?

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or trout are excellent choices for pickling due to their rich flavor and firm texture. However, leaner fish like cod or haddock can also be used. Experiment with different types to find your favorite, but ensure they are fresh and of high quality for the best results.

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).

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