Finnish Herring and Potato Gratin
A comforting and savory gratin featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes and brined herring, baked in a creamy dill sauce. This dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, showcasing classic Finnish ingredients.

๐ง Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes, thinly sliced
- 300 g Brined herring fillets, chopped
- 400 ml Heavy cream
- 100 ml Milk
- 3 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Butter, for greasing
- 50 g Grated Gruyere cheese (optional)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 200ยฐC (400ยฐF). Grease a medium-sized gratin dish with butter.
๐ก Tip: Ensuring the dish is well-greased prevents sticking. - 2
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
๐ก Tip: A good whisking incorporates air, making the sauce lighter. - 3
Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared gratin dish. Scatter half of the chopped herring over the potatoes.
๐ก Tip: Uniformly sliced potatoes ensure even cooking. - 4
Pour about a third of the cream mixture over the potato and herring layer. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, the remaining herring, and another third of the cream mixture.
๐ก Tip: Distributing the herring evenly ensures each serving has fish. - 5
Top with the final layer of potatoes and pour the remaining cream mixture over the top. If using, sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese over the gratin.
๐ก Tip: The cheese topping adds a golden, crispy crust. - 6
Cover the gratin dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
๐ก Tip: Covering initially steams the potatoes, while uncovering allows browning. - 7
Let the gratin rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh dill if desired.
๐ก Tip: Resting allows the gratin to set, making it easier to serve.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf using salted herring, rinse it thoroughly under cold water before chopping to remove excess salt.
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add a minced garlic clove to the cream mixture.
- โEnsure potato slices are thin and consistent for even cooking.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped chives or parsley to the cream sauce.
- Incorporate a layer of sautรฉed leeks or onions for added flavor.
- Use smoked herring for a different flavor profile.