Ash Wednesday opens the time of Lent, which, however, does not have to mean giving up. On the contrary, in 2026, start this period with a bang by serving your family creamed herrings that melt in your mouth from the first bite.
Their taste is so perfect that they disappear from the plate within two minutes and the household members immediately ask for more, because the creamy cream goes perfectly with the delicate, slightly salty fish.
If you feel like you can use the Lenten herring recipe all year round. Not just now, when it’s peak season. However, before you start preparing, make sure you have all the necessary products in the kitchenso that you don’t have to panic later and send your husband to the store for them.
Recipe for Lent herring – ingredients (for 3-4 servings):
- salted herring flakes – 400 g
- onion – 1 piece of medium size
- pickled cucumbers – 2 pieces
- cream 18 percent. – 180 ml
- pickled cucumber water – 60 ml
- freshly ground pepper – as desired
- water – 1 liter (for soaking)
- – 800 g (for serving – optional)
To prepare the herrings, start by soaking them. To do this, pour cold water over the sheets and soak for 2-4 hours (depending on how salty you like your fish). You can change the water while soaking if you want them to be more delicate.
After soaking Dry the herring and cut into small pieces 3-4 cm long. Also cut the pickled cucumbers – preferably into cubes or thin slices – and the onion – into thin slices. If you want the onion to have a milder flavor, pour boiling water over it and drain after 2 minutes.
Mix the cream with 3 tablespoons of cucumber water. If the sauce is not sour enough, add another tablespoon. In one bowl, combine the sauce with herrings, cucumbers and onion. Season the dish with ground peppermix and put in the fridge for at least 3 hours so that the flavors meld well.
Serve herring in cream with hot, boiled potatoes (preferably lightly sprinkled with dill). And if you don’t like them, choose other additions, e.g. bread or salad.
