Śledzie po Chłopsku: A Rustic Polish Herring Dish

Śledzie po chłopsku, or “Herring in the Peasant Style,” is a traditional Polish dish that embodies the simple yet hearty flavors of rural Poland. This recipe showcases marinated herring combined with wholesome ingredients like potatoes, onions, and pickles. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, offering a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes. Whether served during festive gatherings or enjoyed as an everyday treat, this dish is a celebration of Polish culinary heritage.

Ingredients
400g marinated herring fillets (salted or in oil)
3 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and cubed
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 pickles, diced (preferably dill pickles)
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Herring:
If using salted herring, rinse the fillets under cold water and soak them in fresh water or milk for 1-2 hours to reduce the saltiness. Pat dry and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the herring pieces, boiled potatoes, onions, pickles, and chopped eggs.

Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine and Mix:
Pour the dressing over the herring mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve cold, garnished with parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.

Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Śledzie po chłopsku pairs wonderfully with rye bread or boiled potatoes. It’s a great addition to buffet tables or as a side dish for hearty main courses.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the herring and potatoes may deteriorate.
Variations
Vegetable Additions: Incorporate diced carrots or green peas for added sweetness and color.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Apple Twist: Include small cubes of tart apples to balance the dish with a hint of sweetness.
Vegan Alternative: Replace the herring with marinated tofu or eggplant slices and use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream.