Herring in Oil

Herring in Oil Recipe from Romania - Delicious Appetizer for Any Occasion

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 1 hour 50 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Herring in oil is a traditional dish that is popular in many European countries, especially in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers.

History

Herring has been a staple food in many coastal regions for centuries. The practice of preserving herring in oil dates back to the Middle Ages when people needed to find ways to preserve fish for long periods of time. This method of preserving fish in oil helped to ensure that people had access to a source of protein during the winter months when fresh fish was scarce.

Ingredients

2 lb / 1 kg herrings
3 – 4 lemons
2 bay leaves
5 – 6 juniper berries
2 tsp salt
oil as needed

How to prepare

Clean and wash the herrings, remove the heads and tails, and cut them into medium-sized pieces.
Sprinkle salt over the herrings and let them sit for an hour.
Place the fish pieces in a dry bowl, pour the lemon juice over them, and let them sit for another 20 – 30 minutes.
Start layering the fish pieces in a jar, alternating with a bay leaf, 2 – 3 juniper berries, some lemon juice, and oil to cover each layer of fish.
Continue layering until all the fish pieces are used up.
Pour a layer of oil that is two fingers wide, cover the jar with a plate, and steam it for 25 – 30 minutes (counting from when the water starts boiling).
Serve the dish cold.
This can be preserved over the winter. In that case, first tie the jar with cellophane and then steam it.
You can use the heads and tails to prepare a sour soup for two.

Variations

Add sliced onions or garlic to the layers of fish for extra flavor.
Use different herbs and spices, such as dill or parsley, to customize the dish to your taste.
Substitute the lemon juice with vinegar for a tangier flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean the herrings thoroughly before cutting them into pieces.

- Letting the herrings sit with salt and lemon juice helps to enhance the flavor of the fish.

- Layering the fish with bay leaves and juniper berries adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the dish.

- Steaming the jar of herring in oil helps to cook the fish gently and infuse it with the flavors of the herbs and spices.

Serving Suggestions

Herring in oil can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish. It pairs well with crusty bread, boiled potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the jar of herring in oil helps to cook the fish gently and infuse it with the flavors of the herbs and spices. This method of cooking also helps to preserve the fish for longer periods of time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh herrings, you can use other types of fish, such as mackerel or sardines, in this recipe. You can also use different types of oil, such as olive oil or sunflower oil, to preserve the fish.

Make Ahead Tips

Herring in oil can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This dish actually tastes better after it has had time to marinate in the oil and spices.

Presentation Ideas

Serve herring in oil in a glass jar or a decorative dish to showcase the layers of fish and herbs. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Herring in oil pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer. It also goes well with pickles, olives, and other salty snacks.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover herring in oil in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of herring in oil typically contains around 200-250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Herring in oil is a low-carbohydrate dish, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Fats

Herring is a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. The oil used to preserve the herring also adds to the fat content of the dish.

Proteins

Herring is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Including herring in your diet can help you meet your daily protein needs.

Vitamins and minerals

Herring is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Herring is a type of fish, so it may not be suitable for those with fish allergies. Additionally, some people may be allergic to juniper berries or other ingredients used in this recipe.

Summary

Herring in oil is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is a low-carb and low-calorie option that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Herring in oil is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to be a popular choice for seafood lovers around the world.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a dreary day in the middle of winter, and I was feeling restless and bored. I decided to rummage through my old recipe box, looking for something new and exciting to try. That's when I stumbled upon a faded index card with the words "Herring in Oil" scrawled across the top.

I had never heard of herring before, let alone eaten it, but something about the name intrigued me. I remembered my mother mentioning it once in passing, saying that it was a popular dish in the coastal towns of her homeland. With a sudden burst of inspiration, I decided to give it a try.

I carefully read through the recipe, taking note of the simple ingredients and easy steps. It seemed like a dish that required little effort but promised big flavor. I could almost taste the tangy vinegar and rich olive oil as I imagined myself preparing the dish in my own kitchen.

The next day, I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. I made a trip to the local fish market, where I found a fresh batch of herring fillets waiting for me. The fishmonger gave me a knowing smile when I told him what I was planning to make, assuring me that I was in for a real treat.

Back at home, I laid out all the ingredients on my kitchen counter. The herring fillets gleamed silver in the light, their delicate flesh glistening with promise. I carefully marinated them in a mixture of vinegar, olive oil, and a secret blend of spices that I had picked up from an old friend many years ago.

As the herring soaked up the flavors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I thought back to my childhood, when my own grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching me the art of cooking. She had a knack for creating delicious dishes out of the simplest ingredients, and I had always admired her skill and passion.

With a sense of determination, I set to work, following the recipe with precision. I gently placed the marinated herring fillets in a glass jar, making sure to layer them with thinly sliced onions and fresh herbs. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, a heady mix of tangy vinegar, earthy olive oil, and sweet onions.

I let the herring sit in the jar for a few days, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. Every time I opened the lid to check on the progress, I was greeted with the mouthwatering scent of the marinated fish. I couldn't wait to finally taste the fruits of my labor.

When the time came to sample the herring, I was practically salivating with anticipation. I carefully spooned a few fillets onto a plate, garnishing them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to the coastal towns of my mother's homeland, where the salty sea air mingled with the scent of freshly caught fish.

The herring was a revelation, a perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory flavors. The flesh was tender and flaky, the onions sweet and caramelized. I savored every bite, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me.

From that day on, herring in oil became a staple in my kitchen. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this simple yet delicious dish. It became a symbol of my love for cooking and my appreciation for the culinary heritage that had been passed down to me through generations.

As I sit here, reminiscing about that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for herring in oil, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. It's not just about preparing food, but about creating memories and forging connections with those we love. And for that, I will always be thankful.