Glazed Herring with Soy Sauce

This delightful dish features tender herring filets beautifully glazed with a mix of light and dark soy sauces, creating a balance of salty and sweet flavors. The subtle heat from ginger, undertones of nutmeg, and a hint of black pepper add depth to the dish. With a short preparation time, this recipe is perfect for a quick yet sophisticated meal. The ingredients meld together effortlessly, allowing the natural flavor of the herring to shine. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the saltiness with just a simple tweak of soy sauce proportions. Perfect for seafood lovers, it's a nutritious choice that's both delicious and satisfying. Serve it as a main dish or incorporate it into a more extensive spread of Asian-inspired dishes. The subtle glaze not only enhances the herring's texture but also provides a visually appealing finish. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, making it a great option for a quick dinner or a weekend get-together.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g herring filets
• 50 g light soy sauce
• 20 g dark soy sauce
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp olive oil

Spices

• Grated ginger
• Ground nutmeg
• Black pepper

Preparation Time

• Total time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Herring: Begin by laying out the 400 g of herring filets on a clean work surface or a large plate.
2. Sprinkle Spices: Evenly sprinkle each filet with grated ginger, a dash of ground nutmeg, and a touch of black pepper to enhance the flavors.
3. Soy Sauce Mix: In a separate bowl, mix 50 g of light soy sauce with 20 g of dark soy sauce.
4. Add Sugar: Dissolve 2 tsp of sugar into the soy sauce mix, stirring until fully combined.
5. Brush Filets: Using a brush, coat the filets thoroughly with the soy sauce mixture.
6. Adjust Saltiness: Taste the sauce and adjust the saltiness by altering the amount of light soy sauce as needed.
7. Marinate: Allow the filets to marinate for about 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld and penetrate the fish.
8. Cook the Herring: Heat 1 tsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
9. Sear the Filets: Add the glazed filets to the hot skillet, cooking them skin-side down first.
10. Cook Each Side: Allow the filets to cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
11. Thickening the Sauce: If there's remaining marinade, add it to the skillet, allowing it to thicken slightly while coating the fish.
12. Serve Hot: Once cooked, remove the filets carefully from the skillet to avoid breaking.
13. Garnish Options: Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
14. Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
15. Storing Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
16. Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid drying out the fish or losing its delicate texture.
17. Safety Tip: Ensure the herring is thoroughly cooked to maintain food safety.
18. Culinary Note: The combination of spices and soy sauce can be adjusted to your preference for a unique twist.
19. Veggie Addition: Add thinly sliced onions or peppers to the marinade for an additional layer of flavor.
20. Final Touches: End with a drizzle of fresh lime juice for brightness before serving.

Tips

• Substitution: If herring is unavailable, try using mackerel or sardines for a similar taste.
• Sweetness Adjustments: Feel free to increase or decrease sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Storage Tip: Keep spices in airtight containers to maintain their potency.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
• Protein: 40g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

Variations

• For a spicier version, add chili flakes to the marinade.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute herring with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice.
• Add a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for contrast.
• Complement the flavors with a glass of white wine or sake.

Best Places

• Nobu Restaurant: Known for its sophisticated seafood dishes. Location: 105 Hudson St, New York, USA.
• The Ledbury: Offers a modern take on classic fish dishes. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.
• Sushi Tetsu: A cozy spot for Japanese cuisine lovers. Location: 12 Jerusalem Passage, London, UK.
• Gaggan Anand: Innovative Asian flavors inspired by street food. Location: Soi Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Osteria Francescana: A three-Michelin star restaurant blending tradition with contemporary. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
• Quintonil: Celebrated for its fresh and sustainable dishes. Location: Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Narisawa: A unique twist on Japanese and French cuisines. Location: Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, Japan.
• Geranium: Offers a dynamic menu with a focus on natural ingredients. Location: Per Henrik Lings Allé 4, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Le Bernardin: Elevated seafood in an elegant setting. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
• Attica: Innovative dishes served in a relaxed setting. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Melbourne, Australia.