Śledzie z Pieczarkami (Herring with Mushrooms)

Śledzie z pieczarkami, a popular dish in Polish cuisine, offers a delightful blend of pickled herring and earthy mushrooms. This savory treat is often enjoyed during festive occasions or as part of traditional Polish holiday meals. The combination of the salty herring with the soft, earthy flavor of mushrooms creates a balanced dish that pairs wonderfully with rye bread or fresh vegetables. Whether you’re new to Polish cuisine or a longtime fan, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor profile.

Ingredients:

4-5 pieces of salted herring fillets (or pickled herring)
200g fresh mushrooms (e.g., button mushrooms or cremini), sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Directions:

Prepare the Herring: If using salted herring fillets, rinse them well under cold water to remove excess salt. Cut the fillets into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms: Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Then, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they soften and release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.