Śledzie po Węgiersku (Hungarian-Style Herring)

Śledzie po węgiersku, or Hungarian-style herring, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines pickled herring with a medley of sweet and tangy Hungarian-inspired flavors. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a unique centerpiece for a festive table. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s a must-try recipe for seafood lovers.

Ingredients:

400g pickled herring fillets
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 cup tomato paste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for a spicy kick)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup water
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:

Prepare the herring: Rinse the pickled herring fillets under cold water to reduce saltiness, if desired. Pat dry and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent. Add the bell peppers and sauté until tender.
Make the sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, water, sweet paprika, hot paprika (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine the ingredients: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Layer the herring pieces in a dish and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Marinate: Cover and refrigerate the dish for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy it chilled as an appetizer or with crusty bread.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve chilled as part of a buffet or as a stand-alone appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with rye bread, boiled potatoes, or a side salad.
Storage: Store the herring in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors intensify over time, making it even tastier the next day.
Variations:

Spicy Twist: Add a finely chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce for a creamy texture.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate grated carrots or thinly sliced celery for additional crunch.
Wine-Infused Sauce: Replace water with dry white wine for a more sophisticated flavor profile.