Swedish pickled herring, affectionately known as "Sill," is a delectable delicacy that encapsulates the essence of Scandinavian cuisine. This timeless dish offers a spectrum of flavors, including tangy mustard, aromatic onion, and refreshing dill, making it an incredibly versatile and beloved food in Sweden. Whether you're a fan of traditional Swedish fare or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this article will delve into the world of Swedish pickled herring, providing insights into its history, preparation, and the best ways to savor its unique taste.

Ingredients:

- 500g fresh herring fillets (skin-on, boneless)

- 1 red onion, thinly sliced

- 1/2 cup white vinegar

- 1/2 cup water

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1/4 cup pickling salt (kosher salt)

- 1 tsp black peppercorns

- 1 tsp yellow mustard seeds

- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped

- 4-5 bay leaves

- Crispbread and boiled potatoes (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herring:

- Rinse the herring fillets under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels.

- Cut the herring fillets into bite-sized pieces, typically about 2 inches in length.

2. Make the Pickling Brine:

- In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, pickling salt, black peppercorns, and yellow mustard seeds.

- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

3. Layer the Jar:

- In a clean glass jar or airtight container, layer the herring pieces and thinly sliced red onions.

- Sprinkle the fresh dill over the herring layers and tuck in the bay leaves.

4. Pour in the Brine:

- Once the pickling brine has cooled, carefully pour it over the herring and onion layers, ensuring they are completely submerged.

5. Seal and Refrigerate:

- Seal the jar or container tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. For best results, allow the herring to pickle for 2-3 days, occasionally gently shaking or swirling the jar to distribute the flavors.

6. Serve the Pickled Herring:

- Serve your homemade Swedish pickled herring with crispbread and boiled potatoes.

- The pickled herring can be enjoyed as an appetizer, part of a smorgasbord, or even as a topping for open-faced sandwiches.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Swedish cuisine with this homemade pickled herring recipe. Experiment with different flavor variations or share this Scandinavian classic with family and friends. Skål! (Cheers!)

Nutrition Value

1. Fresh Herring Fillets (500g):

- Calories: Approximately 558 calories

- Protein: Approximately 63 grams

- Carbohydrates: Negligible (less than 1 gram)

- Fat: Approximately 36 grams

- Sodium: Approximately 111 milligrams

2. Red Onion (1 medium-sized):

- Calories: Approximately 46 calories

- Protein: Approximately 1 gram

- Carbohydrates: Approximately 11 grams