Rollmops
Pickled Herring Rolls
Rollmops are a traditional German appetizer or snack consisting of pickled herring fillets rolled around a pickle spear, often with onion and spices. They are particularly popular as a 'hangover cure' due to the savory and tangy flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 Salted herring fillets(Look for 'Rollmopsheringe' or salted herring fillets specifically prepared for rolling. Ensure they are skinless and boneless.)
- 8 Dill pickles or cornichons(Choose firm, crunchy pickles that are roughly the same length as the herring fillets. Dill pickles are traditional, but cornichons can also be used for a smaller bite.)
- 1 Yellow onion(Thinly sliced into rings or half-moons.)
- 500 ml Vinegar brine(A pre-made brine is convenient. Alternatively, make your own by combining 250ml white wine vinegar, 250ml water, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp salt, heated until dissolved and then cooled.)
- 1 tbsp Mustard seeds(Whole mustard seeds add a pungent bite.)
- 1 tsp Black peppercorns(Adds a subtle warmth.)
- 2 Bay leaves(For aromatic depth.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the salted herring fillets under cold running water to remove excess surface salt. Place the fillets in a bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for at least 4 hours, changing the water every hour, or until the herring is no longer excessively salty to the taste. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
⏱️ 4 hours (minimum, with water changes) - 2
Prepare the pickles. If using larger dill pickles, cut them lengthwise into spears that are roughly the same width as the herring fillets. Ensure each pickle spear is firm and intact.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Assemble the rollmops. Lay a herring fillet flat on a clean surface, presentation side down. Place one pickle spear at one end of the fillet. Carefully roll the herring fillet tightly around the pickle spear, tucking in any loose edges. Secure with a toothpick if necessary, though a tight roll should hold on its own.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Prepare the jar. Thinly slice the onion into rings or half-moons. In a clean glass jar or container large enough to hold the rollmops, layer the sliced onion, mustard seeds, peppercorns (if using), and bay leaves (if using).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Pack the rollmops into the prepared jar, arranging them snugly. Pour the vinegar brine over the rollmops, ensuring they are completely submerged. If the brine doesn't cover them, you may need to make a little extra (see ingredient notes).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the herring to pickle. The rollmops will continue to develop flavor the longer they marinate. They are best consumed within 1-2 weeks.
⏱️ 24 hours (minimum)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Rollmops are famously known as a German hangover cure, often enjoyed with a slice of dark bread and butter.
- ✓Always keep rollmops refrigerated. They are a cold dish and should be served chilled.
- ✓For a quick snack, serve directly from the jar with toothpicks.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Experiment with different types of pickles, such as spicy pickles or gherkins.
- Adjust the brine by adding chili flakes for a spicier kick, or a pinch of sugar for a sweeter profile.
- Add other aromatics to the brine, such as dill sprigs or juniper berries.