Herring Salad, No. 1 Recipe

Herring Salad, also known as "Herring Salad No. 1," is a traditional dish that originated in Europe. It has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to be a popular dish today. The combination of herring, apples, almonds, and onions creates a delicious and unique flavor.

Herring, a fatty fish abundant in the North Atlantic, has been a staple in European cuisine for hundreds of years. It was traditionally used as a source of sustenance and was often preserved through methods such as smoking, pickling, or salting. Herring Salad became a popular way to incorporate this nutritious fish into meals.

One interesting fact about herring is that it was once considered a food of the working class due to its affordability and availability. However, it slowly gained popularity among all social classes and eventually became a favorite among the elite as well.

To prepare Herring Salad No. 1, you will start by soaking four herrings in cold water overnight. This process helps to remove excess salt and enhances the flavor of the fish. After soaking, rinse the herrings several times in fresh cold water.

Next, you will need to skin, bone, and cut the herrings into one-half inch pieces. Removing the skin and bones ensures a smoother texture and makes it easier to eat. Peel and dice two apples, then mix them with the herring pieces.

Now, it's time to add one-half cup of coarsely chopped almonds and one finely chopped onion to the herring and apple mixture. These ingredients add a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor to the salad.

Next, remove the milsner (or soft egg) from the inside of the herring and mash it until perfectly smooth. This step adds richness and creaminess to the dressing. Add one-half cup of vinegar, one teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of pepper to the mashed egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.

Pour the dressing over the herring, apple, almond, and onion mixture, stirring gently with a fork to prevent mashing the salad. It is recommended to set the salad in the ice-box until ready to serve. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.

Before serving, you can add sliced lemons on top for a touch of freshness and acidity. Alternatively, if you prefer whole herrings, you can skip cutting them into pieces and pour the dressing over the whole fish instead.

Herring Salad No. 1 is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or served as an appetizer. Its unique flavor profile and combination of textures make it a delightful addition to any meal.

Similar to Herring Salad No. 1, there are other delicious herring dishes you can explore. For example, herring can also be used to make pickled herring, where the fish is marinated in a tangy brine with onions and spices. Another popular option is smoked herring, which provides a distinct smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with hearty bread or crackers.

Whether you choose to make Herring Salad No. 1 or explore other herring dishes, you will be embracing a rich culinary tradition and enjoying the unique flavors this fish has to offer.