Herring in sour cream and apple salad (śledź w śmietanie)
Time: 20 min + 30 min standing (about 15 min hands-on)4 servingsapprox. 350 kcal / serving (estimated)approx. 20 g protein / serving
Śledź w śmietanie is the soft, creamy herring salad of Polish cooking: sour cream, tart apple and a little mustard mellow the salty fish. It is a classic on cold platters and as a Christmas starter. Many people who do not otherwise care for herring come to love it, because the sweet-sour flavour of the apple balances the salty fish so well.
If needed, soak the herring fillets briefly in cold water, then pat dry.
Cut the fillets into pieces of about 2-3 cm.
In a bowl, mix the sour cream, mustard and a pinch of sugar.
Grate in the apple.
Add the chopped red onion.
Gently fold in the herring pieces so they don't break up.
Season with freshly ground pepper.
Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the flavours blend.
Serve cold, sprinkled with chives.
A Receptnaptár original recipe. Calories and protein are estimated.
Tips
A firm, tart apple is best, because sweet varieties are too soft and do not bring the freshness the dish needs.
Fold the herring into the sauce gently, because it breaks up easily, and the salad looks best when the pieces stay whole.
Leave it in the fridge for a few hours before serving, so that the apple juice and sour cream permeate the fish.
Frequently asked questions
What should I serve it with?
Hot boiled potatoes or rye bread. The contrast between warm potatoes and cold, creamy herring is excellent, and this is the traditional pairing in Poland.
Can I make it with yogurt?
Yes, you can replace half the sour cream with Greek yogurt, which makes it lighter and tangier. Just make sure it is not too thin, or the salad will turn watery.