Chopped herring is a classic dish that brings bold flavors and rich tradition to the table. Popular in many Northern European cuisines, this savory treat combines tender herring with fresh ingredients for a delightful mix of textures and tastes. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a light meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
We love how versatile chopped herring is—it can be served on rye bread, crackers, or even alongside boiled potatoes. This recipe highlights the perfect balance of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet notes that make chopped herring a favorite for gatherings and everyday meals alike. Whether you’re new to this dish or a seasoned fan, our step-by-step guide will help you create a flavorful and authentic experience.
Ingredients
To prepare a classic Recipe for Chopped Herring, we gather fresh, quality ingredients that bring the dish’s bold flavors to life. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the tangy, salty, and slightly sweet notes.
Here’s what we’ll need:
- Salted herring fillets (4 pieces) – properly soaked and rinsed to reduce excess salt
- Red onion (1 medium) – finely chopped for a sharp, fresh bite
- Cooked potatoes (2 medium) – peeled and diced for a comforting texture
- Fresh dill (2 tablespoons) – chopped to add a fragrant herbal note
- Apple (1 small) – peeled and finely chopped for subtle sweetness
- Sour cream (1/2 cup) – creamy base that smooths the flavors
- Mustard (1 tablespoon) – provides gentle heat and depth
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – brightens the mixture with acidity
- Black pepper (to taste) – freshly ground for seasoning balance
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Salted herring fillets | 4 pieces | Soaked and rinsed |
| Red onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Cooked potatoes | 2 medium | Peeled and diced |
| Fresh dill | 2 tablespoons | Chopped |
| Apple | 1 small | Peeled and chopped |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup | – |
| Mustard | 1 tablespoon | – |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | – |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
“The secret to an authentic Chopped Herring is balancing the saltiness of the herring with the crisp freshness of onion and dill, mellowed by creamy sour cream.”
By preparing these ingredients precisely as outlined, we ensure our dish captures the true spirit of this Northern European favorite.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our flavorful Chopped Herring with precision and ease, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures each step from chopping to mixing highlights the dish’s authentic texture and taste.
Essential Tools for Preparation
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
We need a sturdy and sharp knife to finely chop the salted herring fillets, onions, apples, and fresh dill. Precision in chopping guarantees even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
- Cutting Board
Use a clean, stable cutting board as your workspace to efficiently chop ingredients without slipping or cross-contamination.
- Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized bowl allows comfortable mixing of the chopped ingredients with sour cream, mustard, lemon juice, and seasoning.
- Measuring Spoons
Accurate measurement of mustard, lemon juice, and black pepper is crucial for balancing the signature tangy and salty profile.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
- Potato Masher or Fork
For lightly mashing the cooked potatoes before incorporating them into the mixture to enhance texture without losing their structure.
- Gloves
To prevent the strong fish smell on our hands while handling the herring.
- Serving Dish or Glass Jar
Presenting the chopped herring attractively is part of the experience. Consider a shallow bowl or glass jar for layering and serving.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Finely chopping all ingredients | Must be sharp for clean cuts |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for chopping | Preferably non-porous for hygiene |
| Mixing Bowl | Mixing all components | Medium size for thorough blending |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate seasoning measurements | Use to maintain flavor balance |
| Potato Masher/Fork | Lightly mashing cooked potatoes | Optional for desired texture |
| Gloves | Handling herring without odor | Optional but recommended |
| Serving Dish/Glass Jar | Attractive serving and presentation | Enhances the dish’s appeal |
With these tools ready, we can confidently move forward to crafting our delicious Chopped Herring that captures all the classic flavors seamlessly.
Prep Work
Before assembling our chopped herring, careful preparation ensures each ingredient shines and the flavors blend perfectly. Let’s get started with the essential prep steps.
Preparing the Herring
First, we focus on the backbone of the dish—the salted herring fillets. If using salted herring, rinse the fillets under cold running water to remove excess salt. Soak them in cold water for 1 to 2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes to moderate the saltiness without losing flavor.
Once desalted, pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Check for any remaining bones and remove them with tweezers or your fingers for a smooth, enjoyable texture. Next, chop the fillets into small, uniform pieces roughly ¼ inch in size. This ensures every bite has a balanced mix of herring without overpowering the other ingredients.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Rinse | Under cold water to remove excess salt |
| Soak | 1-2 hours, changing water every 30 minutes |
| Dry | Pat with paper towels to remove moisture |
| Debone | Remove remaining bones carefully |
| Chop | Cut into ¼ inch pieces for even distribution |
Chopping Vegetables and Other Ingredients
Next, we prepare the fresh elements that bring brightness and texture to our chopped herring. Peel and finely chop the red onion to about ⅛ inch pieces. This ensures the aroma is sharp but not overwhelming.
Peel the apple, remove the core, and dice it similarly into ¼ inch cubes to add a hint of sweetness and crunch that contrasts with the soft potatoes and fish.
Cooked potatoes should be peeled and diced into ½ inch chunks. If desired, we can lightly mash them for a creamier mouthfeel but retain some structure to keep the dish from becoming mushy.
Finally, chop fresh dill finely to release its fragrant oils, enriching the overall flavor profile. Combine all chopped ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl, ready to be mixed with the herring and the creamy dressing for optimum flavor harmony.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Size/Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Red onion | Peeled and finely chopped | ⅛ inch pieces |
| Apple | Peeled, cored, diced | ¼ inch cubes |
| Cooked potatoes | Peeled, diced, optionally mashed | ½ inch chunks |
| Fresh dill | Finely chopped | Releases aromatic oils |
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to bring together the fresh, bold flavors of our Recipe for Chopped Herring. Precision in combining, seasoning, and final adjustments ensures an authentic Northern European classic.
Combining Ingredients
- Place the chopped salted herring fillets into the medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Add the finely chopped red onion. This brings a sharp contrast that balances the fish’s saltiness.
- Gently fold in the diced cooked potatoes and diced apple to add subtle sweetness and earthy texture.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill evenly over the mixture, infusing it with fragrant herbal notes.
Seasoning and Mixing
- Measure and add the following dressings directly into the bowl:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sour cream | 1/3 cup (80 ml) |
| Mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
- Using a spoon or spatula, gently combine all ingredients until fully integrated but still retaining slight texture—you want the mixture creamy yet chunked.
- Taste the mixture. Confirm the perfect balance between tanginess, salt, and sweetness before proceeding.
Final Adjustments
- Adjust seasoning by adding a touch more lemon juice or mustard if desired for extra zing.
- If the mixture feels too thick, stir in a teaspoon of water or additional sour cream to reach your preferred consistency.
- Transfer the chopped herring to an attractive serving dish or jar.
- Cover and chill for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld harmoniously.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our Recipe for Chopped Herring at its best, consider these versatile serving options that highlight its bold, tangy flavors and creamy texture.
Classic Bread Pairing
Serve the chopped herring on dense rye bread or traditional pumpernickel. The slightly sweet and earthy bread complements the salty and tangy notes perfectly. For extra flair, we like to:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on the bread
- Add a sprig of fresh dill on top of the chopped herring
- Garnish with thin slices of cucumber or radish for crunch and freshness
Elegant Canapés
For gatherings, transform the herring into bite-sized canapés:
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Pumpernickel rounds | Cut into 1.5-inch circles |
| Chopped herring | Spoon a small heap on each round |
| Fresh dill | Place a small sprig on top |
| Lemon zest | Lightly sprinkle for brightness |
Assemble just before serving to keep bread crisp and flavors vibrant.
Light Salad Accompaniment
We also recommend serving the chopped herring alongside a fresh green salad tossed with light vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate. Consider a salad of:
- Mixed baby greens
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber ribbons
- Lemon vinaigrette
Traditional Side Dish
Elevate the dish by pairing it with:
- Boiled new potatoes with a pat of butter and fresh chives
- Hard-boiled eggs sliced on the side
- Pickled beets or cucumbers for additional tang
This combination creates a balanced and satisfying meal showcasing the chopped herring.
Serving Temperature
For optimal flavor, serve chopped herring chilled after at least 1 hour of refrigeration. Cold temperatures enhance the firm texture and brighten the blend of sour cream, mustard, and lemon juice notes.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and make-ahead preparation are key to preserving the vibrant flavors and texture of our chopped herring dish. Follow these guidelines to ensure your chopped herring stays fresh and delicious.
Storing Chopped Herring
- Transfer the chopped herring to an airtight container immediately after preparation. This prevents the dish from absorbing other odors in your refrigerator.
- Store the container in the coldest part of your fridge, ideally at a temperature of 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C).
- Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
| Storage Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Container Type | Airtight plastic or glass container |
| Refrigerator Temp | 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C) |
| Maximum Storage | 3 to 4 days |
| Avoid | Exposure to strong odors |
“Tip: Always use a clean spoon when serving to avoid contamination and prolong shelf life.”
Make-Ahead Preparation Tips
- Assemble the chopped herring mixture up to 24 hours before serving. This resting period enhances the harmonious blend of tangy, salty, and sweet flavors.
- Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and chill immediately.
- Before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir to redistribute any settled ingredients and refresh its texture.
- If the mixture thickens during refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of sour cream or lemon juice to restore creaminess and brightness.
Pro Tip: Make extra portions and store them in small containers for easy grab-and-go servings or elegant entertaining.
Freezing Considerations
We recommend avoiding freezing chopped herring since it can alter the texture of the fish and fresh ingredients, leading to a less pleasant eating experience. Instead, plan to enjoy the dish fresh within the recommended refrigerator storage period.
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure our chopped herring maintains its authentic flavor profile and texture, ready to impress at any meal or gathering.
Conclusion
Chopped herring is a timeless dish that brings bold flavors and rich tradition to our table. With the right ingredients and careful preparation, we can create a dish that’s both authentic and versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, it’s sure to impress with its perfect balance of tangy, salty, and fresh notes.
By following the steps and tips shared, we can enjoy this Northern European favorite anytime. Its ease of preparation and delightful taste make it a go-to recipe for gatherings or everyday enjoyment. Let’s keep this culinary tradition alive and savor every flavorful bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chopped herring?
Chopped herring is a traditional Northern European dish made with salted herring fillets combined with fresh ingredients like red onion, apple, potatoes, and dill. It features a balanced mix of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors.
What ingredients are needed for classic chopped herring?
Key ingredients include salted herring fillets, red onion, cooked potatoes, fresh dill, apple, sour cream, mustard, lemon juice, and black pepper. Fresh preparation of each ingredient is essential for authentic flavor.
How do I prepare the herring for the dish?
Rinse and soak salted herring fillets to reduce saltiness, then dry, debone, and chop them into small, uniform pieces. Proper prep helps ensure a balanced final flavor.
What kitchen tools do I need to make chopped herring?
You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, and measuring spoons. Optional tools include a potato masher, gloves to manage fish odor, and a serving dish or glass jar.
How should chopped herring be combined?
Mix chopped herring with finely chopped onions, diced apples and potatoes, and dill. Add sour cream, mustard, lemon juice, and pepper, then adjust seasoning to taste for the perfect balance.
How long should chopped herring be chilled before serving?
Chill the mixture for at least one hour. This resting time allows flavors to meld and improves texture, making the dish more flavorful and authentic.
What are the best serving suggestions for chopped herring?
Serve with dense rye or pumpernickel bread, butter, fresh dill, and cucumber or radish slices. It’s also great on canapés, or alongside salads, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and pickled vegetables.
How do I store chopped herring to keep it fresh?
Store chopped herring in an airtight container in the coldest part of the fridge. Consume within 3 to 4 days for best flavor and texture. Avoid freezing as it can ruin the dish’s texture.
Can I prepare chopped herring in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead. Chilling allows flavors to develop further. Stir well before serving to refresh texture and flavor.