Savory Beet and Herring Salad

This dish is a vibrant and flavorful combination of varied ingredients, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that delight the palate. The slightly sweet and earthy flavor of beets pairs beautifully with the salty richness of herring. Complemented by tender potatoes and crisp apples, this salad offers a refreshing yet filling meal. The addition of capers lends a tangy twist, enhancing the overall taste profile. This dish is both hearty and light, ideal for enjoying year-round. The preparation ritual invites creativity and relaxation, making it a delightful way to spend an afternoon in the kitchen. Perfect for gatherings, this salad is sure to impress family and friends alike. Its colorful presentation and bold flavors make it a standout dish on any table. Whether served as a side or a main course, this beet and herring salad is a feast for the senses.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g cooked beef
• 4 herring fillets
• 2 potatoes
• 1 beet
• 1 onion
• 2 pickles
• 1 large tart apple
• 1 hard-boiled egg
• 1 tbsp capers

For the Dressing

• 100 g mayonnaise
• 100 g sour cream
• Salt to taste
• Sugar to taste
• Pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 95 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by cooking the potatoes with their skins on. Once tender, drain, cool, and peel them. Similarly, boil the beet until it is soft. After cooling, peel and cut it into strips or cubes.
2. While the potatoes and beet are cooling, finely dice the onion. This will add a sharp, spicy contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients.
3. Dice the tart apple and pickles into small, even pieces. Their crunchiness will provide a delightful texture.
4. Slice the cooked beef and herring fillets into small, bite-sized pieces. Ensuring the pieces are uniform will make the salad easier to mix and enhance its aesthetic.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apple, pickles, beef, herring, and onion.
6. In a separate small bowl, blend the mayonnaise with the sour cream. Add salt, sugar, and pepper to taste. This dressing will bind the ingredients beautifully and add a creamy richness to the salad.
7. Pour the dressing over the mixed ingredients in the large bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the salad to mix everything thoroughly without mushing the potatoes.
8. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and smooth the top for presentation.
9. Chop the hard-boiled egg finely and scatter over the top of the salad.
10. Add the capers as a garnish, distributing them evenly across the top for a burst of briny flavor.
11. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld.
12. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this delightful dish.

Tips

• For a vegan option: Use tofu or tempeh in place of herring and beef, and opt for a plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Balancing flavors: Adjust the seasoning by adding more sugar or vinegar if you prefer a sweeter or more tangy taste.
• Cutting uniformity: Ensure all ingredients are chopped uniformly for an even distribution of flavors in every bite.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Dietary Adjustments: Substitute beef with chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Flavor Variation: Add chopped fresh dill or parsley for a herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with rye bread or as part of a buffet.
• Excellent alongside smoked fish or grilled meats for a complete meal.

Best Places

1. Restaurant Barin - Known for its rich flavor profiles and unique presentation methods in the heart of Riga.

   • Location: Alberta iela 13, Riga, Latvia.

2. The Baltic Spoon - Offers a modern twist on traditional Baltic favorites in a cozy setting.

   • Location: Viestura iela 7, Jūrmala, Latvia.

3. Old Town Kitchen - Charming ambiance with a menu that celebrates classic dishes.

   • Location: Tirgoņu iela 6, Riga, Latvia.

4. Taste of Herring - Specializes in seafood dishes, providing fresh and flavorful meals.

   • Location: Pils laukumā 4, Liepāja, Latvia.

5. Sigulda Savory - Known for bringing out authentic flavors with a creative flair.

   • Location: Šveices iela 19, Sigulda, Latvia.

6. The Seaside Grill - Offers a robust menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.

   • Location: Meža prospekts 76, Ventspils, Latvia.

7. Clay Pot Tavern - Offers a rustic dining experience with authentic Latvian dishes.

   • Location: Raunas iela 92, Cēsis, Latvia.

8. Herring & Beet - A cozy spot offering a sophisticated menu of traditional Latvian recipes.

   • Location: Brīvības iela 34, Daugavpils, Latvia.

9. Flavor of Seasons - Focuses on seasonal ingredients to highlight the essence of Latvian cuisine.

   • Location: Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela 8, Jelgava, Latvia.

10. Amber Plate - Delivers delightful flavors with a focus on fresh, local produce.

    • Location: Valdemāra iela 31, Valmiera, Latvia.