Scandinavian Herring In Tomato Sauce

Herring in tomato sauce is a classic dish often served as an appetizer or snack. It consists of pickled herring fillets in a tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce, creating a savory and flavorful combination.

This dish is popular in many Northern European countries, particularly in Scandinavia and the Netherlands.

The best choice for this dish lies in the balance of flavors—the sharpness of the pickled herring blends harmoniously with the sweetness and acidity of the tomato sauce.

The moment you first try it, the complexity of flavors and textures confirms its appeal. The herring provides a delicate, fishy bite, while the tomato sauce adds richness and depth.

After making it for the first time, my friends couldn’t stop eating it! The bold flavors and satisfying mix of ingredients made it irresistible. It’s also a great base for creating other variations with added spices or vegetables.

Let me walk you through the entire process step-by-step, so you can enjoy this delicious dish in your kitchen as well.

What Does Herring In Tomato Sauce Taste Like?

Herring in tomato sauce offers a unique blend of flavors. The herring itself has a slightly salty, fishy taste, which is balanced by the tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce.

The sauce adds richness with hints of savory garlic, onion, and herbs, creating a well-rounded and satisfying flavor profile.

The combination of the tender herring and the bold, aromatic sauce makes it a delightful dish with layers of taste that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Herring In Tomato Sauce

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Course: Main or appetizer
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Scandinavian/European
• Calories: ~300 per serving (depends on serving size and specific ingredients)
• Yield: Serves 4-6

Kitchen Utensils

• Large frying pan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Small bowl (optional for mixing ingredients)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or olive oil)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fresh diced tomatoes)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if preferred)
• 6 tablespoons oil (for the herring)

How To Make Herring In Tomato Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, vinegar, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.

3. Cook the Herring:

While the sauce is simmering, heat the remaining 6 tablespoons of oil in another pan. Add the herring fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they are lightly browned and heated through.

4. Combine and Simmer:

Gently add the cooked herring into the tomato sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Let the mixture simmer together for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

5. Serve:

Once done, remove from heat and serve warm, ideally with bread, potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

How Do You Eat Herring In Tomato Sauce?

Herring fillets in tomato sauce can be enjoyed in various ways. You can eat them straight from the dish, paired with sides like crusty bread or boiled potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.

They also work well as an appetizer or snack, served with rye crackers or toast. In some cultures, herring in tomato sauce is enjoyed cold as a light meal or on a charcuterie board.

You can also add it to salads for an extra burst of flavor, or serve it over rice or pasta for a more filling meal. The dish’s versatility makes it easy to enjoy in different ways!

Health Benefits

Herring in tomato sauce offers several health benefits:

1. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Herring is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.

2. High in Protein: This dish provides a good amount of protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth.

3. Packed with Vitamins: Herring is rich in vitamins D and B12, supporting bone health, immune function, and energy levels.

4. Low in Calories: When served with fresh ingredients like tomatoes and onions, this dish is relatively low in calories, making it a nutritious option for weight management.

5. Rich in Antioxidants: The tomato sauce provides antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and support overall health.

Expert Tips For Making The Best

➤ Use Fresh Herring: If you can find fresh herring, use it! The taste and texture are far superior to canned options. However, if fresh is unavailable, high-quality canned herring works perfectly too.

➤ Balance the Sauce: The key to a perfect tomato sauce is balance. Taste the sauce as it simmers, and adjust with a pinch of sugar to reduce acidity, or a splash of vinegar for extra tang.

➤ Don’t Overcook the Fish: Herring is delicate, so make sure not to overcook it. A few minutes in the sauce is all it needs to absorb the flavors without becoming dry or tough.

➤ Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill at the end can really elevate the dish, giving it a vibrant, fresh flavor.

➤ Serve with Starchy Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with boiled potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, which soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

How Do You Preserve Herring In Tomato Sauce?

To preserve Herring in Tomato Sauce, allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze the herring in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove to preserve the texture and flavors. Freezing may slightly affect the texture of the fish, but the sauce will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Herring in tomato sauce is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish. It’s quick to prepare, full of rich flavors, and makes for a wonderful meal whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a family.

The savory herring combined with the tangy tomato sauce is truly a match made in heaven. This recipe is also versatile, so feel free to tweak it to suit your tastes, whether that means adjusting the level of spice or playing around with different herbs.

I hope you enjoy preparing and eating this dish as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out, or if you have any other ideas for variations.

Happy cooking!

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