German
Matjes Hausfrauenart
Tender matjes fillets are folded into a cool cream sauce with apple, onion, and pickled gherkins, then left to mellow in the North German way. Serve them with warm boiled potatoes so the sauce can run into every bite.
Watch it madeCALLEkocht - Omas Rezepte · 7:42
Ingredients
- Matjes fillets4 fillets
- Apples1 medium
- Onion1 small
- Pickles2 medium
- Sour cream150 g
- Crème fraîche100 g
- Dill2 tbsp chopped
- Lemon juice1 tbsp
- Sugar1 tsp
- White pepperto taste
- Saltto taste
Method
- Rinse the matjes fillets briefly if very salty, pat them dry, and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and core the apple, peel the onion, and finely dice both; finely dice the pickles as well.
- In a bowl, mix the sour cream, crème fraîche, lemon juice, sugar, dill, white pepper, and a little salt to make the sauce.
- Fold in the apple, onion, and pickles, then add the matjes pieces and mix gently so the fish stays intact.
- Cover and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld.
- Serve the Matjes Hausfrauenart cold, traditionally with boiled potatoes or dark bread.
Common questions
Can I substitute matjes herring with another fish or preserve if I can’t find it?
Best substitutes are other mild pickled herring fillets, preferably in brine rather than vinegar. Smoked herring will taste wrong. If using salted herring, soak it first to reduce saltiness, then proceed with the creamy sauce.
How far ahead can I make Matjes Hausfrauenart?
Make it 4 to 24 hours ahead for the best flavor. The herring, apples, onions, and gherkins benefit from time to mingle. Add the potatoes close to serving so they stay firm and don’t absorb too much sauce.
What are the most common mistakes with this dish?
Using too much salt is the biggest mistake, since matjes, gherkins, and brine already contribute plenty. Also avoid overmixing and mashing the fish. Dice the apple and onion finely so the sauce stays balanced and the texture stays clean.
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they keep?
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The herring is best kept cold and not frozen. If the sauce loosens, stir gently before serving. Keep potatoes separate if possible, since they soften quickly in the dressing.
What should I serve with Matjes Hausfrauenart besides potatoes?
Traditionally it’s served with waxy boiled potatoes, but dark rye bread also works well. Add boiled eggs or a simple cucumber salad if you want a fuller plate. Serve well chilled, with the sauce spooned over the herring and potatoes.