Dressed herring

Christmas is a celebration full of meaning and tradition, and for many, the festive table is not complete without the specific dishes that bring joy and warmth to the soul. Today, I invite you to discover together a Russian delicacy that has become a symbol of the Christmas table: "Dressed Herring" salad. This colorful and tasty salad, with rich layers of vegetables and fish, is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a work of art on the plate.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g of pickled herring
- 1 red beet (raw or boiled)
- 3 small carrots
- 2 large potatoes
- 3 hard-boiled eggs
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- Fresh dill (for decoration)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

A brief history of Dressed Herring salad:
This salad has become a traditional dish in many countries of the former Soviet Union, often served during Christmas and New Year celebrations. With layers of boiled vegetables and herring, it is a recipe that combines flavors and colors, turning every meal into a festive experience. It is believed that the origins of this salad date back to times when fish was an essential ingredient in daily nutrition, and fish dishes were often decorated to impress guests.

Step by step, how to prepare Dressed Herring salad:

1. Boiling the vegetables:
- Start by thoroughly washing the beet, carrots, and potatoes. It is important to boil them with the skin to retain all the nutrients and prevent loss of flavor.
- Place the vegetables in separate pots with cold water and a pinch of salt. Boil the beet for 40-50 minutes, the carrots for 20-30 minutes, and the potatoes for 25 minutes, until they are soft but not overcooked.

2. Preparing the ingredients:
- After the vegetables are boiled, let them cool slightly, then peel them. Cut the beet, carrots, and potatoes into small cubes.
- Drain the pickled herring and cut it into small cubes. This will add a salty and intense flavor to the salad.

3. Preparing the eggs:
- Boil the eggs in water for 10-12 minutes, then immediately place them in cold water to stop the cooking process. Peel them and keep one yolk for decoration.

4. Mixing the mayonnaise:
- In a small bowl, mix one tablespoon of marinade from the herring with the mayonnaise. This mixture will give the salad a special flavor.

5. Assembling the salad:
- Use a stainless steel ring or a bowl to create the layers. Start with a layer of beet, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise.
- Continue with a layer of carrots, sprinkle with salt, and press gently with the back of a spoon.
- Add the herring, followed by the potatoes, and on top of those, another thin layer of mayonnaise.
- Then, add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, finishing with a final layer of beet.

6. Decorating:
- Pass the remaining yolk through a fine sieve to create a fine powder. This decoration will add an elegant touch to the salad.
- Decorate with a thin layer of mayonnaise, sprinkle the yolk powder, and add a few sprigs of fresh dill.

7. Chilling:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to firm up and combine the flavors. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

Chef's tip:
If you want to impress even more, you can add a layer of finely chopped dill between layers or use smoked fish instead of herring. Also, for a vegetarian version, you can replace the herring with avocado or marinated mushrooms.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned herring instead of pickled herring?
Yes, but make sure to drain it well and marinate it slightly before use to enhance its flavor.

- What can I do with leftover salad?
Dressed Herring salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can serve it in sandwiches or as a side dish to other dishes.

Pairing with other dishes:
This salad pairs perfectly with rye bread or blini, and for a pleasant contrast, serve it alongside a glass of cold vodka or a summer fruit cocktail that will complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
- Herring is rich in Omega-3, essential for heart health.
- Boiled vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals, providing important nutritional intake.
- Eggs add extra protein, making this salad a substantial choice for festive meals.

Christmas is a special time to gather with loved ones, and Dressed Herring salad is not only a delicious dish but also a way to share traditions and memories. Whether you serve it at the festive table or simply to treat yourself, this salad will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!