Herring in tomato marinade is a Scandinavian classic that pairs pickled herring with a zesty tomato sauce. It's perfect for festive occasions, especially during winter holidays. To make it, soak salt-brined herring, sauté onions, and mix them in a sweet and tangy marinade. Let the dish chill in the fridge for at least a day to develop its rich flavors. If you're curious about the preparation steps and serving tips, there's more to explore.
History
Herring in tomato marinade has a fascinating history that dates back to traditional Scandinavian preservation methods, where people cured and pickled fish to survive the long winters.
Herring in tomato marinade reflects traditional Scandinavian preservation techniques, allowing communities to thrive through harsh winters.
Over time, the incorporation of tomato sauce into herring dishes gained popularity, especially in the early 20th century, thanks to culinary exchanges between Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisines.
You might enjoy the modern take on this dish, like Juviksild's Tomato Herring recipe, which combines herring fillets in tomato with a blend of spices to enhance the flavor.
In Norway, these dishes often grace festive tables, particularly during winter holidays, showcasing the cultural significance of fish in Norwegian cuisine.
The vibrant tomato marinade not only adds taste but also makes the dish visually appealing for communal meals.
Recipe
To achieve the best flavor, it's essential to allow the dish to rest in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Prepare this dish in advance, and you'll have a flavorful offering ready to impress at your next celebration.
Ingredients:
- 400g pickled herring
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat, then stir in the tomato puree and dissolve the sugar until completely incorporated.
Once combined, add the white vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a clean glass jar, layer the pickled herring, followed by the sliced onions, and pour the warm tomato marinade over the top.
Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Juviksild's Tomato Herring, consider using high-quality pickled herring for the best taste.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sugar in the marinade to suit your palate.
For added flavor, you can also incorporate spices such as dill or bay leaves into the marinade.
Remember to always serve the dish chilled, and it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat over multiple occasions.
Cooking Steps
To get started on your herring in tomato marinade, you'll need to prepare the herring first by soaking it and then slicing it.
Next, mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly to create a flavorful base.
Finally, combine everything in a jar, refrigerate it, and let those delicious flavors meld together for a full day.
Step 1. Prepare Herring for Marinating
Begin by soaking salt-brined herring fillets in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water 2-4 times to cut down on the saltiness.
After soaking, drain the herring and slice the fillets into 1/4 to 1/2 inch pieces, ready for marinating.
Next, thinly slice onions and sauté them in oil until tender, taking care not to brown them, as this enhances the flavor of the marinade.
Once the onions are ready, combine them with tomato sauce and other marinade ingredients, simmering for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Finally, layer the prepared herring and cooled marinade in a glass or ceramic bowl, starting and ending with the sauce, and refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor infusion.
Step 2. Mix Marinade Ingredients Thoroughly
With the herring and sautéed onions ready, it's time to mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Start by heating ¼ cup of oil in a skillet until it's warm but not smoking; this will serve as the base for your marinade.
Stir in ¼ cup of tomato puree, ensuring you achieve a smooth consistency.
Gradually add ¾ cup of granulated sugar, stirring continuously until it fully dissolves to balance the sweetness with the tomato flavor.
Next, incorporate ¼ cup of white vinegar to enhance the marinade's acidity.
Once everything is well combined, allow the mixture to cool slightly.
This step is crucial, as a cooled marinade will layer beautifully with the herring and onions in your preparation.
Step 3. Add Herring to Marinade
Layer the salt-brined herring fillets in a clean glass jar or bowl, alternating with thinly sliced sautéed onions for a delicious flavor boost.
Make sure the fillets are soaked in cold water for 24 hours prior, changing the water 2 to 4 times to reduce saltiness.
After slicing the fillets into 1/4 to 1/2 inch pieces, you can start layering.
Once you've arranged the herring and onions, pour your prepared tomato marinade over the top, ensuring all fillets are completely covered.
This step is crucial for infusing the flavors.
Finally, cover the container tightly.
You're now ready for the next stage, where the flavors will meld beautifully in the refrigerator.
Enjoy the anticipation!
Step 4. Refrigerate for 24 Hours
To fully develop the flavors of your herring in tomato marinade, refrigerate it for a minimum of 24 hours. This marinating time is essential, as it allows the herring fillets in tomato sauce to absorb the rich flavors of the tomato and onion, resulting in a more robust dish.
Be sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to keep any unwanted odors from other foods out of your marinade. During refrigeration, you'll notice the tomato sauce thickening slightly, enhancing the overall consistency.
For the best taste experience, serve the chilled herring after the full 24-hour marinating period. Doing this ensures you enjoy the optimal flavor profile that makes this dish truly delightful.
Step 5. Serve With Fresh Dill
Fresh dill is a fantastic addition that elevates the flavor of herring in tomato marinade. To incorporate fresh dill, finely chop the herb and sprinkle it evenly over the assembled herring just before serving. This ensures that every bite carries that bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the dish's richness.
Dill pairs beautifully with the acidity of the tomato marinade, balancing the sweetness of the sauce while adding a distinctive aroma. For a lovely garnish, use whole sprigs of fresh dill to decorate the serving dish, enhancing its visual appeal and inviting freshness.
Alternatively, you can mix fresh dill into the marinade before layering the herring, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully during refrigeration for an even more pronounced taste.
Final Thoughts
While enjoying herring in tomato marinade, you'll appreciate how this dish not only offers a burst of flavors but also embodies the spirit of festive gatherings.
The process of layering the herring with sliced onions, then covering it with a rich tomato sauce, creates a delightful blend that's perfect for any occasion.
This quick and simple recipe is especially ideal for the winter holiday season, allowing you to prepare ahead and enjoy your time with loved ones.
Serve it chilled with sturdy rye bread or hot boiled potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Plus, with a shelf life of up to two weeks in the refrigerator, it's a convenient choice for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious bites ready whenever you need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Canned Herring in Tomato Sauce Healthy?
Canned herring in tomato sauce can be a healthy choice for you.
It's packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and can help reduce inflammation. With about 20 grams of protein per serving, it supports muscle maintenance too.
Plus, the tomato sauce adds vitamins and antioxidants. Just keep an eye on the label for added sugars and sodium, as some brands can have higher levels that might affect your health.
How Do You Eat Herring Fillets in Tomato Sauce?
You can enjoy herring fillets in various ways.
Try serving them on sturdy rye bread for a quick snack, or pair them with hot, boiled potatoes to balance the flavors.
If you're feeling festive, consider adding them to a charcuterie board or as an appetizer salad for a gathering.
You can also enjoy them on crackers for a light bite.
The versatility makes it easy to incorporate herring into your meals!
Is Marinated Herring Good for You?
Yes, marinated herring is good for you!
It's packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
You'll also get high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair.
Plus, the fermentation process enhances gut health by introducing beneficial probiotics.
It's low in calories, making it a smart choice if you're watching your weight.
With vitamins D and B12, it helps maintain bone health and boosts energy metabolism, too!
What Is a Marinated Herring Called?
Marinated herring goes by different names depending on where you are. In Sweden, it's called "sill," while in the Netherlands, you'll hear "matjes."
If you're in Germany, you'll likely come across "Bismarckhering." English speakers often refer to it as "soused herring."
Each name reflects a unique cultural twist on how the herring is prepared and enjoyed.
