Śledzie w Oleju z Marynowanymi Grzybami

A Traditional Polish Recipe for Herring with Pickled Mushrooms)

Introduction
Śledzie w oleju z marynowanymi grzybami is a classic Polish dish that beautifully combines the delicate flavors of marinated herring with the earthy tang of pickled mushrooms. Traditionally served during the holiday season, particularly at Christmas, this dish is perfect as an appetizer or a flavorful side for any occasion. Its simplicity in preparation and depth of flavor make it a beloved staple in Polish cuisine.

Ingredients:
300 g marinated herring fillets (preferably in brine or lightly salted)
150 g pickled mushrooms (such as chanterelles or button mushrooms)
1 medium onion, finely sliced
100 ml vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola oil)
2 bay leaves
5-6 whole allspice berries
1-2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Herring:
If the herring fillets are too salty, soak them in cold water or milk for 1-2 hours. Once desalted, pat them dry with a paper towel and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Slice the Onion and Mushrooms:
Peel the onion and slice it into thin rings. Drain the pickled mushrooms and slice them into smaller pieces if needed.

Layer the Ingredients:
In a glass or ceramic dish, layer the herring pieces, sliced onions, and pickled mushrooms. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

Add the Spices:
Tuck the bay leaves and allspice berries between the layers. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top.

Pour the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil over the layered ingredients, ensuring everything is well-covered.

Marinate:
Cover the dish with a lid or cling film and refrigerate for at least 12 hours (preferably 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, alongside crusty bread or boiled potatoes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure the herring is fully submerged in oil to maintain freshness.
Variations:
Add Vinegar for Extra Tang: Incorporate a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the marinade for a sharper flavor.
Sweet Twist: Add a few slices of pickled cucumber or a sprinkle of sugar for a sweet-and-sour profile.
Herbaceous Touch: Include fresh dill or thyme in the layers for a fragrant twist.