We’ve always been fans of chopped herring, that timeless Eastern European delight packed with bold flavors and rich history. Originating from Jewish traditions, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together herring, apples, and onions for a tangy, refreshing bite we can’t resist.
In our kitchen, we’ve honed this recipe to make it accessible for everyone, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just craving something hearty. Join us as we dive into this easy-to-follow guide that’ll have you whipping up a batch in no time.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful chopped herring—a staple of Eastern European cuisine—we’ve curated a list of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Below, we present them in the order they’re used, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 2 cups of pickled herring fillets, drained and roughly chopped—this forms the hearty base, providing that signature tangy, briny flavor.
- 1 medium apple (such as Granny Smith), cored and finely diced—we add this next for a crisp, sweet contrast that balances the herring’s saltiness.
- 1 large onion, peeled and minced—use a sharp knife for even pieces, as this introduces a pungent depth that mellows during mixing.
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped—prepared in advance, these bring a creamy texture and subtle richness to the mixture.
- 1/2 cup of matzo or breadcrumbs, lightly toasted—we incorporate this for binding, ensuring the dish holds together while absorbing flavors.
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar—added to enhance acidity and tie in the apple’s freshness.
- 1 tablespoon of sugar—this helps round out the flavors, countering any bitterness from the onions.
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground—sprinkled last for a gentle kick that elevates the overall taste.
Gather these essentials, and you’re set for the next steps in preparing our irresistible chopped herring recipe.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our flavorful chopped herring recipe seamlessly, we need a few essential tools that make the process efficient and enjoyable. Building on our ingredient list, let’s ensure everything is at hand for precise chopping, mixing, and serving.
Key Equipment List
We recommend gathering these items to handle the preparation steps with ease:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely chopping onions, apples, and herring to achieve the perfect texture.
- Sharp knife: Essential for finely dicing ingredients; opt for a chef’s knife to ensure clean, even cuts that enhance the dish’s bold flavors.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all elements like herring, apples, and eggs; choose one with a capacity of at least 2 quarts to avoid spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for portioning apple cider vinegar, sugar, and other seasonings, guaranteeing the balance of tangy and sweet notes.
- Grater: Useful for grating apples or onions if a finer consistency is desired, adding a subtle crunch to the final mixture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for gently stirring and blending ingredients without mashing them, preserving the dish’s satisfying texture.
- Food processor (optional): If we want to speed up chopping for a smoother result, a basic model with a pulse function works wonders, though hand-chopping maintains tradition.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move forward and bring our chopped herring to life effortlessly.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting our flavorful chopped herring recipe step by step. This process ensures a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that captures the essence of this traditional dish.
Prepare the Ingredients
First we prepare the key components to set the stage for mixing. Begin by hard-boiling the eggs: place 4 large eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes then immediately transfer the eggs to ice water to cool for 5 minutes. This step yields perfectly firm yolks and whites ready for chopping.
Next peel and core 1 medium apple (such as Granny Smith for its tartness) then grate it using a box grater to create about 1 cup of finely grated apple. The crisp apple adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the herring’s brininess. Finely dice 1 medium onion to get approximately ½ cup ensuring the pieces are uniform for even flavor distribution.
For the herring drain and rinse 1 pound of pickled herring fillets under cold water then pat dry with paper towels. This removes excess salt and prepares the fish for chopping. Lastly chop 2 hard-boiled eggs into small pieces to achieve about ½ cup. These steps not only organize our ingredients but also enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures.
Chop and Mix
With ingredients prepped we now chop and combine them to build the signature chopped herring mixture. Using a sharp knife on a stable cutting board finely chop the drained herring fillets into ¼-inch pieces until you have about 2 cups. The herring’s rich oily texture provides a hearty base that we enhance with other elements.
In a large mixing bowl add the chopped herring chopped eggs grated apple and diced onion. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of matzo or breadcrumbs for binding along with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon of sugar and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Using a spatula or wooden spoon mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated. We recommend tasting the mixture at this point and adjusting seasoning if needed—the tangy vinegar and subtle sweetness create a compelling contrast that makes our chopped herring irresistible.
Assemble the Dish
To assemble our chopped herring we focus on final touches that elevate it to a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Transfer the mixed ingredients into a serving bowl and gently press down with the back of a spoon to compact slightly. For added flair sprinkle an extra pinch of black pepper on top or garnish with fresh herbs like dill if desired.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dish for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld creating a chilled refreshing spread. This resting period intensifies the bold savory notes of the herring against the crisp apple and onion ensuring every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and depth that defines this classic recipe. Serve with crackers or bread for an authentic experience.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our chopped herring recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules, allowing flavors to deepen and meld over time. We often prepare components in advance to simplify serving, especially for holidays or gatherings. Below, we outline practical steps to make ahead without compromising the dish’s fresh, tangy appeal.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
To streamline your process, focus on prepping key elements a day or two before assembly:
- Hard-boiled eggs: Boil and peel eggs up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and easy to chop.
- Grated apple: Grate the apple and toss it with a splash of apple cider vinegar to prevent browning. Refrigerate in a covered bowl for up to 24 hours.
- Diced onion: Chop the onion ahead and store it in a sealed container in the fridge. This step enhances its mild sweetness without overpowering the mixture.
- Rinsed herring: Rinse and pat dry the herring fillets, then keep them wrapped in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days to maintain their briny texture.
Assembling the Mixture in Advance
For optimal flavor development, we recommend fully assembling the chopped herring mixture ahead of time:
- Follow our step-by-step instructions to chop and mix all ingredients, then transfer the completed mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- Compact the mixture gently with a spatula to eliminate air pockets, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Refrigerate the assembled dish for up to 3 days. This resting period allows the tangy notes of vinegar and the subtle sweetness of apples to intensify, creating a more harmonious spread.
Storage and Serving Tips
Proper storage is key to preserving the dish’s vibrant flavors and texture. Use the table below for quick reference on refrigeration and serving guidelines:
| Storage Aspect | Details | Maximum Time |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Keep in an airtight container to retain moisture and prevent odor absorption. | Up to 3 days |
| Freezing | Portion into freezer-safe containers for longer storage, though texture may soften slightly upon thawing. | Up to 1 month |
| Thawing/Serving |
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir gently to refresh. Serve chilled with crackers or bread for the best sensory experience—crisp, tangy, and satisfyingly textured.
In our experience, making ahead not only saves time but also elevates the dish’s bold, authentic taste, making it a go-to for effortless entertaining. Always check for freshness before serving to ensure a confident, delicious result.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on chopped herring with us. This simple recipe captures the essence of tradition while fitting modern lives.
It’s a dish that brings flavors together in a way that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Give it a try and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chopped herring?
Chopped herring is a traditional Eastern European dish, especially popular in Jewish cuisine. It features bold flavors from pickled herring mixed with apples, onions, and other ingredients, creating a tangy, sweet spread. Perfect for holidays or casual meals, it’s a refreshing appetizer served with crackers or bread.
What are the origins of chopped herring?
Chopped herring originates from Eastern Europe, particularly in Jewish communities, where it became a staple for holidays like Passover. Rooted in resourcefulness, it combines simple, flavorful ingredients like herring, apples, and onions to create a satisfying dish that symbolizes tradition and family gatherings.
What ingredients are needed for chopped herring?
You’ll need fresh pickled herring, apple, onion, hard-boiled eggs, matzo or breadcrumbs, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Use about 1 pound of herring, 1 grated apple, 1 diced onion, 2 eggs, and seasonings to taste for a balanced, tangy flavor. Always opt for high-quality ingredients for the best results.
What equipment is required to make chopped herring?
Essential tools include a cutting board, sharp knife, large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, grater, and spatula or wooden spoon. An optional food processor can speed up chopping. These items make preparation efficient and enjoyable, ensuring you handle ingredients safely and accurately.
How do you prepare chopped herring step by step?
Start by hard-boiling eggs, grating the apple, dicing the onion, and rinsing the herring. Chop the herring, eggs, apple, and onion, then mix with matzo, vinegar, sugar, and pepper in a bowl. Compact the mixture, refrigerate for at least an hour to meld flavors, and serve as a spread. The process takes about 30 minutes of active prep.
Can you make chopped herring ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like hard-boiled eggs, grated apple, diced onion, and rinsed herring 1-2 days in advance. Fully assemble the mixture and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enhance flavors. This makes it ideal for busy schedules or entertaining, as the dish improves with time.
How should you store and serve chopped herring?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month—thaw in the fridge before serving. For best taste, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Serve as a spread on crackers, bread, or with veggies for a refreshing, authentic appetizer.