Polish Fish in Jelly
Galareta Rybna
A classic Polish appetizer, Galareta Rybna features tender pieces of white fish, vegetables, and herbs set in a clear, savory gelatin. It's a delicate and visually appealing dish, often served during holidays and special occasions.

๐ง Ingredients
- 600 g White fish fillets (e.g., cod, pike-perch, carp), skinless and boneless
- 2 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 medium Parsley root, peeled and diced
- 1 small Celery root, peeled and diced
- 1 small Onion, quartered
- 2 Bay leaves
- 10 Peppercorns
- 5 Allspice berries
- 4 Fresh parsley sprigs
- 2 tbsp Gelatin powder
- 1 cup Cold water
- to taste Salt
- 2 Hard-boiled eggs, sliced (for garnish)
- 0.5 cup Cooked peas (for garnish)
- 0.5 cup Cooked carrot slices (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Place the fish fillets in a saucepan. Add the diced carrots, parsley root, celery root, quartered onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, and allspice berries. Cover with water and bring to a gentle simmer.
๐ก Tip: Using a mix of root vegetables adds depth of flavor to the broth. - 2
Simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Do not boil vigorously, as this can break up the fish too much.
๐ก Tip: Poaching the fish gently ensures it remains intact for the jelly. - 3
Carefully remove the fish fillets and cooked vegetables from the broth. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to ensure it's clear. Discard the solids.
๐ก Tip: Straining the broth multiple times will result in a crystal-clear jelly. - 4
Season the strained broth with salt to taste. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the cold water and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Blooming the gelatin ensures it dissolves smoothly without lumps. - 5
Gently heat the bloomed gelatin mixture until dissolved. Stir the dissolved gelatin into the warm broth. Add the fresh parsley sprigs.
๐ก Tip: Do not boil the broth after adding gelatin, as it can weaken its setting power. - 6
Cut the cooked fish into bite-sized pieces. Arrange the fish pieces, cooked vegetables (carrots, peas), and sliced hard-boiled eggs in serving dishes or a shallow mold.
๐ก Tip: Arrange the garnishes attractively before pouring the liquid. - 7
Carefully pour the gelatin-infused broth over the fish and garnishes, ensuring everything is submerged. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the jelly is firm.
๐ก Tip: Allow ample chilling time for the jelly to set completely. - 8
Serve chilled, typically with horseradish or a squeeze of lemon.
๐ก Tip: This dish is often served as an appetizer or part of a larger festive meal.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โUse a good quality fish that holds its shape well when cooked.
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the broth while simmering.
- โIf you prefer a firmer jelly, use slightly more gelatin.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other cooked vegetables like green beans or corn to the jelly.
- Incorporate small pieces of cooked chicken or ham for a meatier version.
- Serve with a side of Polish mustard.