Classic Swedish herring: A festive Christmas Eve delight
Country-style herring is a classic Swedish appetiser that graces many Christmas Eve tables. Its preparation is remarkably simple, yet the result always captivates. If you're seeking a delicious and traditional snack, be sure to try this recipe.
Herring has long been associated with Swedish cuisine and traditional holidays, especially Christmas. On the Christmas Eve table, it appears in various forms: in oil, cream, or with onions. However, in my household, the real favourite is country-style herring. This dish is impressive in its simplicity, yet it also boasts a rich flavour, and proper preparation makes it an indispensable part of the holiday menu.
Why should you prepare country-style herring?
Country-style herring is not only delicious but also healthy. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Moreover, it is easy and quick to prepare, and its flavour perfectly complements other Christmas Eve dishes.
Recipe for traditional country-style herring
Ingredients:
- About 450 grams of herring fillets,
- About 100 millilitres of linseed oil,
- 2 onions,
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice,
- 1 tablespoon of wine vinegar,
- 3 bay leaves,
- 3 allspice berries,
- 6 black peppercorns,
- 1 clove,
- Salt.
Preparation method:
- Preparing the herring: Rinse the herring thoroughly and soak it in cold water for about 3 to 4 hours to remove excess salt.
- Preparing the marinade: Meanwhile, prepare the marinade. Slice the onions into thin pieces and sprinkle with salt. Combine the lemon juice, vinegar, bay leaves, allspice, pepper, and clove.
- Combining the ingredients: Cut the soaked herring into pieces and place them in a glass jar. Layer with onions and marinade.
- Marinating: Seal the jar and leave it in the fridge for at least a few days. The longer the herring marinates, the more intense the flavour will be.
Secrets of successful country-style herring:
- Quality of herring: Opt for fresh and high-quality herring fillets. This is the key to a successful dish.
- Type of oil: Linseed oil imparts a unique aroma and taste to the herring. Canola oil can also be used as an alternative.
- Spices: Aromatic spices such as allspice, bay leaf, and pepper perfectly complement the taste of the herring. You can also add other spices according to your preference, like mustard seeds.
