Pickled Herring(Sledzie Marynowane)

Prep: 1440 min Cuisine: Eastern European

Pickled herring offers a tangy, savory flavor with onions and spices, perfect for appetizer platters and enjoyed by seafood lovers and those who appreciate traditional European flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 3 whole salt herring
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 4 peppercorns
  • 4 whole allspice
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Soak herring in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 8 hours or more often.
  2. Save the milk from the herring.
  3. Skin, remove bones, and cut each herring into 4 pieces.
  4. Arrange sliced onions in a bed on a deep platter.
  5. Arrange the cut herring on top of the onions.
  6. Boil vinegar and let it cool.
  7. Rub the milk through a fine sieve.
  8. Mix the sieved milk with the cooled vinegar and sugar.
  9. Pour the pickling mixture over the herring.
  10. Serve with whole boiled potatoes.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use high-quality salt herring and ensure they are well-soaked to remove excess saltiness. If you can't find salt herring, fresh herring can be used, but adjust the brining process accordingly. Consider adding a few slices of fresh dill or bay leaves to enhance the flavor. This recipe can also be adapted with other seafood recipes for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pickled herring on a platter with whole boiled potatoes for a traditional touch. It also pairs beautifully with Horseradish Mustard Cream for an added kick. Consider offering some crusty bread on the side or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. This dish makes a delightful appetizer or part of a seafood spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pickled herring in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to a week, allowing the flavors to develop further. To serve leftovers, simply take the desired amount out and enjoy cold, as reheating is not recommended for pickled dishes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pickled Herring(Sledzie Marynowane) contains roughly 340 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

340 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 14.6g 19% DV
Carbs 49.6g 18% DV
Fiber 5.1g 18% DV
Sugar 5.8g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 377.4mg 16% DV
Potassium 289.3mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 23.9mg 27% DV
Calcium 54.9mg 4% DV
Iron 1.7mg 10% DV
Diet fit High-fiber 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

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

While this recipe specifically calls for salt herring, you can experiment with other fish like mackerel or sardines. Just be mindful of the salinity and soak them appropriately to balance the flavors.

How long should I marinate the herring?

For optimal flavor, allow the herring to marinate in the pickling mixture for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator. This will ensure the fish absorbs the vinegar and spices, enhancing the overall taste.

What can I serve with pickled herring?

In addition to whole boiled potatoes, pickled herring pairs well with crisp rye bread, fresh cucumber salad, or even a simple green salad. For a robust meal, try including a selection of seafood recipes to create a diverse spread.

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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