Pickled Cucumber with Herring and Potatoes

This delightful dish brings together the tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers with the rich and smoky flavor of herring, combined with the comforting taste of potatoes. It's a perfect appetizer or side dish that impresses with both its taste and simplicity. The ingredients meld together to form a harmonious balance, offering a taste of both land and sea. This unique combination is enhanced by the freshness of spring onions and the creamy texture of sour cream. It's an easy-to-make dish that is surprisingly filling. The blend of flavors ensures a refreshing, yet satisfying experience. Perfect for those who enjoy complex tastes in a simple preparation. It's a dish that can easily be extended to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Elegantly simple, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pickled cucumber
25 g smoked herring fillet
10 g boiled potatoes
5 g boiled carrots
25 g sour cream

Spices and Extras

Spring onions (to taste)
Salt (to taste)
Black pepper (to taste)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Cucumber: Begin by slicing the pickled cucumber lengthwise in half. Use a spoon to gently remove the seeds, creating a hollow space for the filling.
Prepare the Filling Ingredients: Dice the smoked herring fillet into small cubes. Repeat the process with the boiled potatoes and boiled carrots to ensure an even distribution of flavors in every bite.
Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced herring, potatoes, and carrots.
Add Creaminess and Flavor: Stir in the sour cream to bind the ingredients together. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Chop Fresh Herbs: Finely chop the spring onions and fold them into the mixture. This will add a fresh, crisp element that complements the other ingredients.
Stuff the Cucumbers: Carefully fill each half of the pickled cucumber with the prepared mixture, pressing gently to ensure it's packed well.
Alternative Options: This filling can also be used in hollowed-out tomatoes for a different flavor experience.
Gather Plating Materials: Choose a shallow serving dish to arrange the stuffed cucumbers, allowing for easy serving and attractive presentation.
Chill and Serve: Optionally, chill the stuffed cucumbers for 10 minutes before serving for a more refreshing taste.
Garnish: Add an additional sprinkle of chopped spring onions or a dash of black pepper on top for visual appeal before serving.

Tips

Substitutions: If smoked herring is not available, consider using smoked salmon or mackerel as an alternative.
Freshness Tip: Use fresh cucumbers for crisp texture.
Sour Cream Options: For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
Protein: 4 g
Fats: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace herring with diced smoked tofu for a vegetarian variation.
Spicy Option: Add a teaspoon of horseradish or mustard to the mix for an added kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light, crisp white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing lunch.
Serve as an appetizer with a platter of mixed pickles and rye bread.

Best Places

St. John's Bar & Restaurant - Known for its intriguing menu and cozy atmosphere. Location: 20 Bread St, London, UK.
The Cucumber Inn - A casual eatery offering a range of delightful dishes, including this one. Location: 55 Green Way, Chicago, USA.
Herring & Co. - Famous for seafood specials and charming coastal views. Location: 123 Fisherman Rd, Sydney, Australia.
Nordic Flavors - Celebrated for innovative Nordic cuisine. Location: 30 Scandi St, Reykjavik, Iceland.
Ocean's Delight - Offers a waterfront dining experience with fresh local ingredients. Location: 99 Harbor Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Culinary Heritage - Emphasizes traditional recipes with a modern twist. Location: 45 Gourmet Ave, Tokyo, Japan.
Pacific Bites - Known for its delectable seafood and ocean views. Location: 77 Ocean Ln, Vancouver, Canada.
Taste of Latvia - Specializes in authentic Latvian flavors. Location: 28 Baltic Rd, Riga, Latvia.
Sea & Vine - Offers a delightful fusion of sea and land dishes. Location: 18 Wine St, Bordeaux, France.
Mediterranean Catch - Renowned for its blend of Mediterranean and seafood cuisine. Location: 62 Coast Dr, Athens, Greece.