Finnish Fried Herring with Mustard Sauce
A classic Finnish dish featuring pan-fried herring, known for its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful flesh. Served with a tangy and creamy mustard sauce, it's a simple yet delicious taste of the Finnish coast.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 medium Whole herring(cleaned, heads and tails removed)
- 100 g Rye flour(for dredging)
- 1 tsp Salt(plus more for sauce)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(plus more for sauce)
- 50 g Butter(for frying)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 200 ml Heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp White wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped, for sauce and garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the cleaned herring dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix the rye flour with 1 tsp salt and 0.5 tsp black pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the fish is crucial for a crispy coating. - 2
Dredge each herring in the seasoned rye flour, shaking off any excess. Ensure the fish is evenly coated.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. - 3
In a large skillet, melt the butter with the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foamy, carefully place the floured herring in the skillet.
- 4
Fry the herring for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
💡 Tip: The fish is cooked when the flesh flakes easily with a fork. - 5
While the fish is frying or resting, prepare the mustard sauce. In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat. Do not boil.
💡 Tip: Warm the cream slowly to prevent scorching. - 6
Whisk in the Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, and chopped dill. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Adjust mustard and vinegar to your preferred tanginess. - 7
Serve the hot fried herring immediately, drizzled with the warm mustard sauce and garnished with fresh dill. Traditionally served with boiled new potatoes.
💡 Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If fresh herring is unavailable, frozen herring can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry.
- ✓For a less traditional but equally delicious sauce, a touch of sour cream can be used instead of or in addition to heavy cream.
- ✓Rye flour gives a distinct Finnish flavor and crispiness; all-purpose flour can be substituted if necessary.
🔄 Variations
- Add a finely chopped shallot to the mustard sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with a side of pickled cucumbers or beetroot salad.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the fried herring before serving can brighten the flavors.