South African Spiced Herring

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the traditional Polish herring dish, the South African cuisine influence is evident in the use of spices such as coriander, cumin, and paprika. Additionally, the herring fillets are pan-fried instead of being traditionally pickled, resulting in a different texture and flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Śledzie, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh herring fillets 500g (1.1 lb) fresh herring fillets
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. 2.
   Place the herring fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fillets are well coated. Let them marinate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the herring fillets from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
5. 5.
   Place the fillets in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Transfer the cooked herring fillets to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with a side of tangy tomato salsa.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Herring — Ensure the herring fillets are fresh and of high quality to achieve the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili powder to the marinade.
• Serve the South African Spiced Herring with freshly baked bread rolls for a complete meal.
• For a refreshing twist, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the cooked herring fillets before serving.
• Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the herring fillets to ensure they are cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the South African Spiced Herring as an appetizer or as part of a seafood platter. Accompany it with a side of tangy tomato salsa and freshly baked bread rolls.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown herring fillets on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Place a bowl of tangy tomato salsa alongside the herring for a vibrant and visually appealing presentation.