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Pickled Mackerel or Herring

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This Pickled Mackerel or Herring recipe is a traditional Northern European seafood delicacy made with tender fish fillets cured in a tangy vinegar brine with onions and warm spices. Perfect for holiday tables, appetizers, or Scandinavian-inspired meals, this easy pickled fish recipe delivers bright, balanced flavor and improves after a day or two in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh mackerel or herring fillets, cleaned and deboned

  • 1 cup white vinegar

  • 1 cup water

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice berries

  • Optional: fresh dill sprigs

Instructions

  1. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Cut into serving-sized pieces if desired.

  2. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

  3. Remove the brine from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

  4. In a clean glass jar or non-reactive container, layer the fish pieces with sliced onions, bay leaves, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and allspice.

  5. Pour the warm (not hot) brine over the fish, ensuring everything is fully submerged.

  6. Let the mixture cool completely at room temperature.

  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. For best flavor, marinate for 2–3 days.

Notes

Always use very fresh, high-quality fish.Ensure fish remains fully submerged in brine for proper curing.Flavor deepens significantly after 48 hours.Do not reuse brine for food safety reasons.Serve slightly chilled for the best taste and texture.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/pickled-mackerel-or-herring/