Sild - Scandinavian Pickled Herring

Ingredients

• Rye bread (for serving)
• Salt (1 tablespoon)
• Fresh dill (for garnish)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Whole black peppercorns (1 teaspoon)
• Sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Water (1 cup)
• White vinegar (1 cup)
• Red onion (1, thinly sliced)
• Pickled herring fillets (2 cups)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, peppercorns, bay leaf, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the marinade to cool to room temperature.
2. While the marinade is cooling, prepare the herring and onions. In a glass or ceramic dish, layer the pickled herring fillets and the thinly sliced red onion.
3. Once the marinade has cooled, pour it over the herring and onion, ensuring that the fillets are fully submerged. If necessary, use a small weight or a clean plate to press the fish down.
4. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
5. To serve, carefully remove the herring fillets from the marinade and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
6. Serve with slices of hearty rye bread to complement the tangy herring. Enjoy this traditional Scandinavian dish as part of a festive meal or as a delightful appetizer.