Herring with Mushrooms and Onion in Tomato Sauce
Herring with Button Mushrooms – this delicious and aromatic dish is a perfect addition to any festive table. Herring with mushrooms, onion, and tomato sauce is a traditional Polish dish, often served during the holiday season. The combination of marinated herring, earthy mushrooms, and a tangy tomato sauce creates a flavorful and satisfying appetizer.
Lent in Polish Tradition – The Time for Herring Dishes
In Polish culinary tradition, Lent (Wielki Post) has always been a time of simplicity and fasting. During the 40 days leading up to Easter, many Polish families would avoid meat and instead turn to dishes featuring fish – with herring (śledź) being the undisputed top of the season. From classic herring in oil and vinegar to creamy mustard herring or sour cream sauces, herring recipes have been passed down through generations. These dishes not only reflect Poland’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions but also showcase the creativity of Polish home cooks, transforming a simple fish into something truly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 500 g salted herring fillets
- 250 g fresh button mushrooms, chopped
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 200 ml tomato puree
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 allspice berries
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the herring: If using salted herring, soak the fillets in cold water for 2-3 hours, changing the water a few times. Once desalted, pat dry and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the mushrooms and onions: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Add the mushrooms and continue cooking until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Prepare the sauce: Add the tomato puree, tomato paste, sugar, vinegar, bay leaf, allspice, black pepper, and salt to the pan. Stir well and let simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove the bay leaf and allspice before assembling the dish.
- Combine the ingredients: In a bowl or serving dish, layer the herring pieces and cover them with the warm tomato-mushroom sauce. Mix gently to coat all the pieces.
- Chill and serve: Let the dish cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve chilled as an appetizer with fresh bread or crackers.
Tips:
- Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more vinegar for acidity or sugar for sweetness.
- This dish tastes best when prepared a day in advance, as the flavors develop over time.
- You can use marinated herring instead of salted herring to skip the soaking step.
Enjoy this flavorful dish!
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