Heringsalat

Ingredients

• 400 gmatjes herring fillets — cut into pieces
• 2apples — diced
• 2pickles — diced
• 1red onion — diced
• 200 gboiled potatoes — cubed
• 150 gmayonnaise
• 1 tbspmustard
• to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

1. Begin by preparing the components for the Heringsalat. Peel and dice the 200 g of boiled potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Ensure the potatoes are fully cooled to room temperature before proceeding, as this will help them hold their shape in the salad.
2. Next, prepare the apples and pickles. Core and dice the 2 apples into small cubes, leaving the skin on for added texture and color. Dice the 2 pickles into similar-sized pieces. Set these aside in a large mixing bowl.
3. Slice the red onion finely. The slices should be thin enough to blend well into the salad but not so thin that they lose their crunch. Add the sliced onion to the bowl with the apples and pickles.
4. Cut the 400 g of matjes herring fillets into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. The herring should be firm and slightly glossy, indicating freshness.
5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 150 g of mayonnaise, 1 tbsp of mustard, and a pinch of fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. The dressing should be smooth and cling to the whisk without being too runny.
6. Pour the dressing over the ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together using a large spoon or spatula, ensuring each piece is coated without breaking the potatoes or herring.
7. Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This brief resting time helps the flavors meld together. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Finish the Heringsalat with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as dill or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately, enjoying the balance of flavors and textures typical of northern German home cooking.