Polish Jellied Fish
Ryba w Galarecie
A traditional Polish delicacy, Ryba w Galarecie features tender pieces of white fish suspended in a clear, savory jelly, often garnished with colorful vegetables like carrots and peas, and hard-boiled eggs. Typically served cold, it's a popular dish during Christmas Eve (Wigilia) and other festive occasions, showcasing a delicate balance of flavors and textures.
🧂 Ingredients
- 700 g White fish fillets (such as cod, pike-perch, or carp), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 portion Fish bones, head, and tail (optional, for richer broth)
- 2 medium Carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 Parsley root, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 small Celery root, peeled and diced
- 1/2 Onion, quartered
- 2 Bay leaves
- 5 Allspice berries
- 10 Black peppercorns
- 1.5 liters Water
- to taste Salt
- 20 g Gelatin powder
- 2 Hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 100 g Frozen peas, blanched
- few Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fish broth: In a large pot, combine fish bones (if using), carrots, parsley root, celery root, onion, bay leaves, allspice, and peppercorns. Add water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Strain the broth, discarding the solids. You should have about 4-5 cups of broth.
💡 Tip: Using fish heads and bones will create a more flavorful and gelatinous broth. - 2
Gently poach the fish fillets in the strained broth. Bring the broth back to a simmer, add the fish pieces, and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Carefully remove the fish pieces from the broth and set aside to cool slightly.
💡 Tip: Do not overcook the fish, as it will become dry and difficult to handle. - 3
While the fish is poaching, prepare the gelatin. In a small bowl, whisk the gelatin powder with about 1/2 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes.
💡 Tip: Blooming the gelatin ensures it dissolves evenly without clumping. - 4
Reheat the strained broth gently. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved. Season the broth with salt to taste. Do not let the broth boil after adding gelatin.
💡 Tip: Adding gelatin to hot, but not boiling, liquid helps it dissolve properly without losing its gelling power. - 5
Assemble the jellied fish: Choose serving dishes or a large platter. Arrange the poached fish pieces, sliced hard-boiled eggs, blanched peas, and some of the cooked carrot slices from the broth attractively in the dishes.
💡 Tip: Arrange the garnishes carefully for an appealing presentation. - 6
Gently pour the seasoned broth over the fish and garnishes, ensuring everything is covered. The broth should be warm, not hot, when pouring.
💡 Tip: Pouring warm broth prevents the delicate garnishes from breaking apart. - 7
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the jelly is firm. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs before serving.
💡 Tip: Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld and the jelly to set completely.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an extra clear jelly, strain the broth through a cheesecloth-lined sieve.
- ✓If you prefer a stronger fish flavor, you can use a whole fish (cleaned) to make the broth.
- ✓This dish can be made in individual ramekins or a larger serving dish.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other cooked vegetables like diced celery or bell peppers.
- Use a mix of different white fish for varied textures and flavors.
- For a touch of acidity, add a splash of white wine to the broth while simmering.