Pickled Herring Recipe
Overview
This traditional Polish recipe for Pickled Herring is a cherished dish often served on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve for good luck. It’s simple to prepare and requires a bit of patience for the flavors to meld perfectly. Remember to change the soaking water to ensure the herring is properly prepared.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 pints
Ingredients
- 2 herring fillets
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon whole allspice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 red onion
Instructions
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Soak the Herring:
- Place the herring fillets in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. Change the water twice during soaking.
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Prepare the Pickling Solution:
- In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, bay leaf, garlic, peppercorns, allspice, and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the soaked herring fillets with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the fish into 1-inch pieces, ensuring to remove any bones.
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion, separating the slices into rings.
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Assemble the Pickled Herring:
- In sterilized jars, layer the herring pieces and onion rings alternately.
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Pickling Process:
- Pour the cooled pickling solution over the herring and onions, ensuring they are completely covered. Cap the jars tightly.
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Refrigerate and Serve:
- Refrigerate the jars for at least 3 days before serving to allow the flavors to develop. The pickled herring can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
- This pickled herring recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Serve it chilled as an appetizer or part of a festive spread.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized before packing the herring to maintain freshness.
Enjoy this traditional Polish delicacy that brings luck and flavor to your festive occasions! 🎄
