Discover how to make Siļķe Ķečupā, a traditional Latvian dish featuring marinated herring in a rich, creamy sauce. This flavorful recipe combines tender herring with a creamy blend of beets and apples for a unique and delicious meal. Perfect for festive occasions or as a special treat, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. Try this step-by-step guide to make your own Herring in Cream Sauce at home.

Ingredients:

- 4-6 fillets of marinated herring

- 1 cup sour cream

- 1 cup mayonnaise

- 1 medium beet, cooked and grated

- 1 medium apple, peeled and grated

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the marinated herring fillets under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.

Add Vegetables and Fruit: Stir in the grated beet, grated apple, and finely chopped onion into the sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Herring and Sauce: Gently fold the herring pieces into the sauce, making sure they are evenly coated.

Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Garnish and Enjoy: Before serving, garnish with fresh dill if desired. Serve chilled as an appetizer or a main dish.

Enjoy your homemade Herring in Cream Sauce (Siļķe Ķečupā) and savor the delicious blend of flavors!

Nutritional Values:

Herring:

- Calories: 240 kcal

- Protein: 20g

- Fat: 17g

- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: ~2g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports heart health and reduces inflammation.

- Rich in Protein: Essential for muscle repair and overall body function.

- Contains Vitamins D and B12: Supports bone health and red blood cell production.

Sour Cream:

- Calories: 198 kcal

- Protein: 2.6g

- Fat: 20g

- Carbohydrates: 3.4g

Benefits:

- Provides Calcium: Essential for bone health.

- Contains Vitamin A: Supports eye health and immune function.

Mayonnaise:

- Calories: 680 kcal

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 75g

- Carbohydrates: 0.6g

Benefits:

- Rich in Healthy Fats (if using olive oil-based): Provides energy and supports brain health.

- Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant.

Beet:

- Calories: 43 kcal

- Protein: 1.6g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 10g

- Fiber: 2.8g

Benefits:

- High in Fiber: Supports digestive health.

- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps fight oxidative stress and inflammation.

- Good Source of Folate: Supports cell function and tissue growth.

Apple:

- Calories: 52 kcal

- Protein: 0.3g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 14g

- Fiber: 2.4g

Benefits:

- High in Fiber: Supports digestive health and weight management.

- Rich in Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and skin health.

- Antioxidants: Helps reduce risk of chronic diseases.

Onion:

- Calories: 40 kcal

- Protein: 1.1g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 9g

- Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and support heart health.

- Contains Vitamin C: Boosts immune function.

- Supports Digestive Health: Promotes a healthy gut microbiome.

Dijon Mustard:

- Calories: 66 kcal

- Protein: 5g

- Fat: 3g

- Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:

- Contains Antioxidants: Helps protect cells from damage.

- Low in Calories: Adds flavor without excessive calories.

Lemon Juice:

- Calories: 29 kcal

- Protein: 0.4g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 9g

- Vitamin C: 53 mg

Benefits:

- High in Vitamin C: Enhances immune function and skin health.

- Supports Digestion: Aids in digestion and detoxification.

Fresh Dill (optional):

- Calories: 43 kcal

- Protein: 3.5g

- Fat: 0.9g

- Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits:

- Rich in Antioxidants: Supports overall health and reduces oxidative stress.

- Contains Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Includes Vitamin A, C, and calcium.

Incorporating these ingredients into your recipe not only adds flavor but also provides a range of nutritional benefits that support overall health.