Smoked herring paste

Fresh Appetizer with Smoked Fish

If you're looking for a quick and tasty recipe for an appetizer, you've come to the right place! This smoked herring appetizer recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to make. Perfect for an evening with friends or a festive meal, this fish salad will surely impress!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Your basic ingredients:

- 200 g smoked herring fillet
- 1 shallot (or regular onion if you don't have it on hand)
- 2 chives
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (you can use mayonnaise for a creamier texture)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika for an extra flavor boost

Step by step to a perfect appetizer:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the shallot and chives. These ingredients will add a fresh and aromatic taste to your dish. I recommend using a sharp knife for an even cut.

2. Cutting the herring: Next, cut the smoked herring fillet into small pieces. The smoked herring is already salty, so be careful with the amount of salt you add later. If you choose to use mayonnaise instead of sour cream, it will bring a richer note, but the smell and taste of the herring will remain constant.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped onion, chives, and herring. Add the lemon juice, which will bring a pleasant acidity and help balance the salty taste of the herring. Then, add the sour cream (or mayonnaise) and mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Seasoning: Finally, add sweet paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure each ingredient is well distributed. This blend will bring a delightful palette of flavors!

5. Chilling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and become more intense.

6. Serving: Once the mixture has chilled, it's time to serve! You can choose to put the appetizer in elegant glasses or cups, or use it as a filling for small sandwiches. It is ideal to be served alongside toasted bread or crackers, which will add a crunchy texture.

Practical tip: If you want to add an even more special touch to the dish, you can add some finely chopped green or black olives. These will perfectly complement the salty taste of the herring and add a splash of color to your appetizer.

Nutritional benefits: Herring is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, providing important nutritional value.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use fresh herring? Of course! You can use fresh herring, but you will need to marinate it before use to enhance its flavors.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with adding freshly chopped dill or even red bell pepper for an extra splash of color and flavor.
- How can I store the appetizer? It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

Delicious pairings: This appetizer pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or craft beer. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

In conclusion, this smoked herring appetizer recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile. Whether you choose to serve it at a party or as a quick snack, it will surely be appreciated by all. So put on your chef's apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious appetizer! Enjoy your meal!