We’ve always been captivated by Chopped Herring a timeless Eastern European favorite that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. Originating from Jewish culinary traditions this zesty dish combines smoked herring with crisp apples onions and a hint of sweetness to create a refreshing appetizer that dances on the palate.
In our kitchen we love how easy it is to prepare Chopped Herring for gatherings or weeknight meals. It’s not only a nutritious option packed with omega-3s but also a versatile recipe that lets us add our own twists while staying true to its roots.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful Chopped Herring, a cherished Eastern European delicacy, we begin by assembling these essential ingredients in the order they are typically prepared. This selection ensures a balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy notes that make the dish so irresistible.
- Smoked herring: 1 pound, fresh and deboned, flaked into small pieces for easy mixing and a rich, oceanic flavor that forms the heart of our recipe.
- Apples: 2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and finely diced to add a crisp, tart sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the herring’s smokiness.
- Onions: 1 large yellow onion, peeled and minced to release its pungent aroma, providing a sharp base that mellows during preparation.
- Hard-boiled eggs: 2 large eggs, boiled until firm and chopped coarsely, offering a creamy texture and subtle richness to enhance the overall mouthfeel.
- White bread or matzo: 2 slices, toasted and crumbled, to absorb excess moisture and add a subtle crunch without overpowering the other elements.
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons, for its bright acidity that cuts through the richness and preserves the traditional tang.
- Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon, adjusted to taste, to introduce a gentle sweetness that harmonizes the flavors and evokes the dish’s historical roots.
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons, for binding the ingredients and adding a smooth finish that makes the mixture easy to spread.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, freshly ground, ensuring the seasoning enhances the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing Chopped Herring with simple, step-by-step instructions that honor its traditional flavors while ensuring a straightforward process. Let’s transform those fresh ingredients into a smoky, tangy delight ready for any gathering.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep our key components to ensure everything is ready for mixing. Start by deboning and flaking 1 pound of smoked herring—remove any skin and bones carefully to achieve a smooth texture, yielding about 2 cups of flaked fish that brings the dish’s signature smoky essence.
Next, hard-boil 2 large eggs by placing them in a pot of cold water, bringing it to a rolling boil, then simmering for 10 minutes; immediately transfer to ice water to cool and peel easily, resulting in creamy yolks that add richness.
Peel and core 2 medium Granny Smith apples, then dice them into ¼-inch pieces for a crisp, tart contrast—aim for about 2 cups to balance the smokiness.
Finally, peel and finely mince 1 medium yellow onion to get approximately 1 cup, which provides a sharp, pungent base; set all prepped ingredients aside in separate bowls to maintain their distinct flavors and textures before combining.
Chop and Mix
We combine the prepped elements in a large mixing bowl to create the harmonious blend that defines Chopped Herring. Begin by adding the flaked smoked herring to the bowl, then incorporate the diced apples and minced onion for a mix of textures that enhance the dish’s fresh, vibrant appeal.
Gently fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, along with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil; stir thoroughly with a fork to evenly distribute the ingredients, creating a cohesive mixture where the sweetness tempers the tang and smokiness.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste—start with ½ teaspoon of each and adjust as needed, aiming for a balanced flavor profile that highlights the dish’s traditional Eastern European roots without overwhelming the natural tastes.
Chill and Serve
To let the flavors meld, we transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the tangy and smoky notes to intensify and the textures to soften for a more refined appetizer experience.
When ready to serve, spoon the chilled Chopped Herring onto toasted bread or matzo slices, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired; this step ensures each bite delivers a delightful contrast of cool, creamy filling against the crisp base, making it a versatile starter for 4 to 6 people.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the joys of preparing Chopped Herring is its flexibility for advance planning, which lets us enhance the flavors and simplify hosting. By making this dish ahead, we allow the smoky notes from the smoked herring to meld beautifully with the tart apples and sweet undertones, creating a more harmonious appetizer that impresses at any gathering.
Why Make Chopped Herring Ahead?
Making Chopped Herring in advance not only saves time but also deepens its taste profile. We find that refrigerating the mixture for extended periods intensifies the balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy elements, making it taste even more authentic and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Make-Ahead Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare Chopped Herring without last-minute rush:
- Prepare the Mixture as Directed: After combining the deboned smoked herring, diced apples, minced onion, hard-boiled eggs, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and seasonings in a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate Immediately: Place the covered mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but ideally overnight or up to 24 hours, to let the flavors develop fully.
- Storage Guidelines: For longer storage, keep Chopped Herring chilled at 40°F (4°C) or below. We recommend consuming it within 2–3 days for optimal freshness, as the apples may soften over time.
To provide a quick reference for storage durations and their effects, here’s a summary in table form:
| Storage Duration | Refrigerator Temperature | Effects on Flavor and Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 24 hours | 40°F (4°C) | Flavors intensify; texture remains crisp | Immediate gatherings |
| 2–3 days | 40°F (4°C) | Slight softening of apples; taste stays vibrant | Planned events |
| Beyond 3 days | Not recommended | Risk of spoilage; flavors may dull | N/A – Prepare fresh |
Additional Tips for Success
- Freezing Option: If we need to extend storage, freeze portions of Chopped Herring in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving to restore the original consistency.
- Serving After Storage: Before serving, let the chilled mixture sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to enhance its refreshing appeal. Garnish with fresh herbs and pair with toasted bread or matzo for that perfect, crowd-pleasing bite.
- Customization Caution: While adapting Chopped Herring, avoid adding acidic ingredients like extra vinegar if storing longer, as they can alter the texture prematurely.
By following these tips, we ensure our Chopped Herring remains a delightful, make-ahead staple that honors its Eastern European roots while fitting modern lifestyles.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how Chopped Herring brings a touch of tradition to our kitchens
It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that adapts to modern tastes while honoring its roots
Let’s make it a staple in our meals and enjoy the joy it adds to gatherings
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chopped Herring?
Chopped Herring is a traditional Eastern European dish with Jewish roots, serving as a refreshing appetizer. It’s made from smoked herring mixed with apples, onions, and a hint of sweetness, offering a balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors. This easy-to-prepare recipe highlights its historical significance and nutritional benefits, making it a versatile option for gatherings.
What are the key ingredients for Chopped Herring?
The essential ingredients include smoked herring (deboned), tart Granny Smith apples, minced yellow onion, hard-boiled eggs, toasted bread or matzo, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. These components create a harmonious mix of textures and flavors, emphasizing smoky and sweet notes for a delicious, nutrient-rich dish.
How do you prepare Chopped Herring?
Start by deboning the smoked herring, hard-boiling eggs, and dicing apples and onions. Combine them in a bowl, add vinegar, sugar, oil, and seasoning, then mix gently. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let flavors meld. Serve chilled on toasted bread or matzo, garnished with herbs. The process is simple and takes about 20-30 minutes of active prep.
Can you make Chopped Herring ahead of time?
Yes, Chopped Herring benefits from being made ahead, as it allows flavors to intensify. Prepare the mixture, refrigerate for up to 2-3 days, or freeze portions for longer storage. Chill for at least an hour before serving to enhance taste. This make-ahead approach makes it ideal for events, while preserving its traditional appeal.
How long can you store Chopped Herring?
Store Chopped Herring in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 1-2 months, but avoid adding acidic ingredients if planning to store extended periods to maintain texture. Thaw in the fridge before serving to keep it delicious and safe.