Do you have a soft spot for pickles and strong flavors? Then you should try Matjes mit Zwiebeln—pickled herring with onions. This dish is more than just German food-it’s an adventure. Matjes herring is famous for its gentle and creamy taste.
It's flavoured in a fine brine and comes with thin onion slices. Sometimes, it is served with sour cream or potatoes. It sums up German cooking: clear, tasty, and deeply cultural. Here's a closer look at this uncommon dish, a standard recipe, and ways to add a new twist. Are you a seafood enthusiast or just desire to experience true German flavors in your cooking? Give Matjes mit Zwiebeln a shot.
What is Matjes Herring?
The word “Matjes” comes from the Dutch word for "maiden" or "young," reflecting the age of the herring used. Matjes herring is typically caught before it reaches maturity, which gives it a softer texture and milder taste compared to mature herring. The fish is cured in a mild brine, a process that enhances its natural flavors without the strong, overpowering fishiness often associated with pickled fish.
Unlike other types of pickled herring, Matjes herring doesn’t undergo heavy salting or vinegar curing, so it retains a gentle, slightly sweet flavor profile. This makes it a perfect canvas for other ingredients, like onions, apples, or even a splash of cream.
The Tradition of Matjes mit Zwiebeln
Matjes mit Zwiebeln is a beloved dish in Northern Germany, where the proximity to the North Sea means seafood is a significant part of the local diet. In places like Hamburg and Bremen, Matjes herring is celebrated annually in festivals, where locals enjoy it in various preparations, from sandwiches to salads. Serving it with onions is the classic way to enjoy Matjes herring, as the sharpness of the onions cuts through the richness of the fish, creating a well-balanced bite.
How to Make Matjes mit Zwiebeln (Pickled Herring with Onions) at Home
If you want to try this dish at home, here’s a simple recipe. Matjes herring can often be found at specialty fish markets or online, and the rest of the ingredients are easy to source.
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets of Matjes herring (mildly pickled, typically found in specialty stores)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced (optional for added sweetness)
- Sour cream or creme fraiche (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Onions: Place the thinly sliced onion in a bowl. Add the vinegar and a pinch of salt, tossing gently to combine. Let the onions marinate for about 10 minutes. This quick marinade takes the edge off the onions and softens their flavor.
Assemble the Dish: Lay the Matjes herring fillets on a serving platter. Arrange the marinated onions over the fillets, drizzling the remaining vinegar from the bowl on top.
Season: Drizzle the sunflower oil over the herring and onions, and season with a bit of black pepper. If you’re adding apple slices, place them around the herring fillets.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh dill over the top for an added hint of freshness.
Serve: Serve with a side of sour cream or creme fraiche and boiled potatoes or dark rye bread. The creaminess complements the herring perfectly and mellows the dish’s overall tang.
How to Enjoy Matjes mit Zwiebeln
Matjes mit Zwiebeln is typically enjoyed as an appetizer or a light main course. Here are a few ways to serve it:
- With Boiled Potatoes: One of the most traditional pairings is boiled potatoes, which provide a neutral, comforting base that balances the herring’s sharpness.
- On Rye Bread: For a Scandinavian-inspired touch, serve the herring on slices of dark rye bread. The dense, slightly bitter flavor of the bread complements the richness of the herring.
- In a Salad: For a lighter option, you can slice the Matjes herring and toss it with mixed greens, thinly sliced cucumbers, and a dollop of sour cream. The flavors work wonderfully in a salad format and make for a refreshing starter.
The Unique Appeal of Matjes mit Zwiebeln
While pickled herring isn’t for everyone, those who appreciate its distinctive flavor often find themselves craving it. Matjes herring is milder than traditional pickled herring, making it an ideal introduction to the world of pickled seafood. This dish offers a taste of Northern Germany’s culinary traditions and provides a unique way to explore German flavors beyond the standard schnitzels and sausages.
Imagine yourself enjoying Matjes mit Zwiebeln at a bustling German fish market, with the fresh sea air mingling with the aroma of smoked fish and salty brine. It’s the kind of dish that transports you—one bite, and you’re experiencing a little slice of German coastal life, no plane ticket required.
A Modern Twist on Matjes mit Zwiebeln
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a twist to the classic recipe:
Add Pickled Vegetables: Instead of just onions, try adding other quick-pickled vegetables like radishes or carrots. These add a bit of crunch and color to the dish, making it even more visually appealing.
Incorporate a Touch of Spice: Sprinkle a little red pepper flakes or chopped chili over the dish for a subtle kick of heat. This modern twist enhances the complexity of flavors.
Create a Creamy Sauce: Mix sour cream, fresh dill, and a dash of lemon juice to make a quick sauce for drizzling over the herring. This gives the dish a richer texture and a hint of tangy freshness.
Why You Should Try Matjes mit Zwiebeln
Whether you’re a fan of seafood or simply looking for an authentic taste of Germany, Matjes mit Zwiebeln is a dish that deserves a place on your table. It’s a reminder of how food can connect us to culture and tradition, and it’s an excellent way to expand your culinary horizons.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about tradition, craftsmanship, and the beauty of simple ingredients done well. Matjes mit Zwiebeln is a little bit of Northern Germany on a plate, and for anyone who loves bold, pickled flavors, it’s a dish that can quickly become a favorite.
In a world where food can often feel overly processed or complicated, Matjes mit Zwiebeln is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, less is more. So, gather your ingredients, try out this recipe, and enjoy a genuine taste of German tradition.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also want to try this Forelle Müllerin (Trout in Brown Butter).