Herring Layered Salad

This herring layered salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for those who love savory dishes. It's a visually striking dish due to its vibrant layers, made with ingredients like beets, potatoes, and herring. Traditionally served cold, it is often prepared in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Each layer contributes a unique element, from the earthy potatoes and sweet carrots to the slightly tangy herring. The salad is finished with a creamy dressing, adding a rich and smooth aspect to the dish. It's an ideal choice for celebrations or as a centerpiece for family gatherings. No matter the occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its taste and presentation. It is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a variety of vitamins and minerals. Enjoy this enticing salad as a true testament to the art of layered salads.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

5 boiled potatoes with skins
600 g skinless herring fillets (rollmops)
2 boiled carrots
2 medium onions
500 g steamed beets
3 boiled eggs

Sauces

2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream

Spices

Salt to taste
2 teaspoons Russian mustard

Preparation Time

Total: 120 minutes (includes 4-12 hours chilling time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by boiling the potatoes, carrots, and eggs ahead of time, allowing them to cool before peeling.
Chop and Grate: Dice the potatoes, carrots, herring, onions, and eggs into small cubes. Grate the beets using a coarse grater.
Mix the Dressing: Combine the mayonnaise and sour cream in a bowl, stirring until smooth.
Prepare the Plate: Lightly coat the serving plate with a layer of Russian mustard—this adds a hint of tangy spice to the salad.
Layer the Salad: Start with a layer of chopped potatoes on the plate, and sprinkle a bit of salt over them.
Continue Layering: Add a layer of herring, followed by onions, then carrots. Sprinkle each layer lightly with salt.
Add the Dressing: After the first few layers, spread a thin layer of the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture on top.
Repeat Layers: Continue with another layer of potatoes, adding salt, herring, onions, and carrots. Top with another coating of the dressing.
Beet Layer: Add a layer of grated beets sprinkled with salt, followed by more dressing.
Finish with Eggs: Top the salad with chopped eggs, sealing the flavors within the layers.
Shape the Salad: Using your hands, gently press each layer to help the ingredients bind together and form a cake-like structure.
Refine the Shape: Press in any pieces sticking out, ensuring a clean, cohesive look.
Cover and Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably 12 hours for enhanced flavor.
Serving: Remove from the fridge and uncover just before serving.

Tips

Salt Usage: Adjust the salt according to taste, especially if the herring is already quite salty.
Assembly: Use a springform pan for perfect layers.
Presentation: Let the salad set overnight for the best taste and more solid layers.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 12 g
Fats: 15 g
Carbs: 22 g

Variations

Vegan Option: Substitute the herring with marinated mushrooms and use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream.
Additional Vegetables: Include layers of peas or corn for added texture and sweetness.
Spicy Twist: Add horseradish to the mayonnaise mixture for an extra spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with rye bread or crispy breadsticks.
Garnishing: Garnish with dill or parsley for a fresh touch.
Beverages: A glass of chilled vodka or white wine complements this dish beautifully.

Best Places

Zuma - Renowned for its exceptional atmosphere and cuisine. Location: Bishopsgate, London, UK.
La Petite Maison - Known for its Mediterranean flair. Location: Nice, France.
Cafe Pushkin - Offers a historic feel with authentic Russian dishes. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
Noma - Famous worldwide for its innovative approach. Location: Refshalevej, Copenhagen, Denmark.
The Ledbury - Celebrated for its seasonal menu. Location: Notting Hill, London, UK.
Geranium - Offers unparalleled views and cuisine. Location: Parken, Copenhagen, Denmark.
White Rabbit - Known for creative Russian-European fusion. Location: Smolenskaya Square, Moscow, Russia.
Maido - Delights with its Japanese-Peruvian fusion. Location: Miraflores, Lima, Peru.
Central - Celebrated for interpreting Peruvian fine dining. Location: Barranco, Lima, Peru.
Eleven Madison Park - Offers a fine dining experience in NYC. Location: Madison Ave, New York, USA.