Store-bought marinated herring gets a fresh makeover in this easy recipe that replicates the traditional Scandinavian favorite.
We don’t always find it easy to get fresh herring in our area, so this recipe is a quick and painless way to freshen up jarred, marinated herring from the supermarket, resulting in a very acceptable version of the traditional Scandinavian cold table favorite.
Easy Marinated Herring
Store-bought marinated herring gets a fresh makeover in this easy recipe that replicates the traditional Scandinavian favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 jar, 8-ounce herring
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon aquavit, see recipe notes
- 6 allspice berries, see recipe notes
- 3 juniper berries, see recipe notes
- 1/2 medium red onion, sliced paper thin
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- In a glass measure, combine the vinegar and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the aquavit, allspice and juniper berries.
- Drain the jarred herring in a colander and rinse in cold water. Remove the herring pieces, pat dry with paper towels and cut into uniform bite-sized pieces. Place half of the herring in a single layer in a glass bowl. Top with half of the onions and dill, repeat with the remaining ingredients and pour the marinade over the fish.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours. To serve, drain the excess liquid and discard the berries. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.
Notes
ABOUT THE AQUAVIT, ALLSPICE & JUNIPER: Aquavit is a Scandinavian spirit flavored with caraway or dill, often with added spices like fennel, anise, or citrus peel. It’s usually served chilled and sipped alongside Nordic dishes like smoked fish or pickled herring. We add a tiny splash to this recipe to bring out the flavors of the whole allspice and juniper berries. If you don’t have these ingredients on hand, they can be omitted without sacrificing too much of the flavor.
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What is Aquavit ??? All it says in the directions is “ see notes “ but nothing is said other than it and others can be omitted ???
Hi J D – So sorry about the missing information. Aquavit is a distilled spirit similar to gin. It’s made with botanicals like anise, cardamom, fennel, and citrus peel. We use it to help enhance and release the flavors of the whole allspice and juniper berries, but it isn’t essential. You could use a splash of gin instead or just omit it.
I love marinated fish. This recipe looks lovely. I will be including this at our NewYears party. Thank You!