Sałatka Śledziowa z Jajkiem: A Classic Polish Herring Salad with Eggs

Sałatka śledziowa z jajkiem (Herring Salad with Eggs) is a beloved dish in Polish cuisine, especially popular during festive occasions like Christmas and Easter. This creamy, tangy, and flavorful salad combines the distinct taste of pickled herring with the richness of boiled eggs and other fresh ingredients. It’s an easy-to-make yet impressive dish that offers a delightful balance of flavors, perfect for serving as a side dish or a starter.

Ingredients:

200 g pickled herring fillets (preferably boneless)
4 large eggs, hard-boiled
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium potatoes, boiled and diced
1 medium apple, peeled and diced
100 g pickles, chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sour cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Directions:

Prepare the ingredients: Begin by draining the pickled herring fillets, rinsing them under cold water if needed to remove excess salt. Cut the herring into small pieces.
Boil the eggs and potatoes: In a separate pot, boil the eggs for about 10 minutes until they are hard-boiled. Once cooled, peel and chop the eggs. Boil the potatoes until tender, then peel and dice them.
Combine the vegetables and fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped onions, diced apples, and pickles.
Add the herring and eggs: To the same bowl, add the chopped herring and boiled eggs, along with the boiled potatoes.
Mix the salad: Gently stir in the mayonnaise (and sour cream, if using). Add salt and pepper to taste.
Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serve the salad chilled, garnished with fresh dill for a burst of color and additional flavor.
Sałatka śledziowa z jajkiem pairs well with rye bread or crackers, making it an ideal appetizer or side dish.
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors improve with time, so it’s perfect for preparing ahead of a gathering.
Variations:

Add more vegetables: You can add cooked carrots, peas, or even beets for a more colorful and nutritious version of this salad.
Creamy twist: If you prefer a creamier texture, use all sour cream instead of mayonnaise, or a mix of both for a richer flavor.
Different types of herring: While pickled herring is traditional, you can also use smoked or marinated herring for a different flavor profile.