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Bismarck Herring with Crispy Fried Potatoes
A classic Northern German favourite featuring tender Bismarck herring paired with golden, crispy fried potatoes. Served with a fresh herb crème fraîche and finely sliced onion rings – perfect for a simple lunch or supper.
📖 What is it
A classic Northern German favourite featuring tender Bismarck herring paired with golden, crispy fried potatoes. Served with a fresh herb crème fraîche and finely sliced onion rings – perfect for a simple lunch or supper.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 600 g waxy potatoes
- ✓ 3 tbsp oil for frying
- ✓ Salt to taste
- ✓ Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ✓ 1 tsp sweet paprika
- ✓ 150 g herb crème fraîche
- ✓ 1 bunch fresh dill, finely chopped
- ✓ 1 medium onion
- ✓ 200 g Bismarck herring (from a jar or fresh)
📊 Nutritional Information
Bismarck herring and fried potatoes make a timeless pairing beloved in many German homes. The tangy, slightly sharp flavour of the herring combined with crispy potato slices brings rustic comfort to the plate. A creamy herb crème fraîche and fresh dill beautifully round off this hearty dish.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Thoroughly wash the potatoes and boil them in salted water for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- 2
Peel the still-warm potatoes and slice them into roughly 0.5 cm thick rounds.
- 3
Peel the onion and cut into thin rings.
- 4
Heat the oil in a large frying pan and fry the potato slices over medium-high heat until golden and crispy, turning occasionally for even browning.
- 5
Shortly before the potatoes are done, season with salt, pepper and sweet paprika.
- 6
While the potatoes cook, mix the crème fraîche with the finely chopped dill and season with a pinch of salt.
- 7
Drain the Bismarck herring and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 8
Arrange the potatoes on two plates, scatter over the onion rings, and top with the herring. Serve the herb crème fraîche on the side.
💡 Tips and Variations
- •
For a richer twist, add crispy bacon to the fried potatoes and serve with crème fraîche flavoured with chives and a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
- •
Pro tip: Use a non-stick or cast-iron pan to achieve perfectly crispy potatoes without sticking.
- •
The star of the dish is the salty, slightly tangy flavour of the Bismarck herring, which defines the overall taste.
- •
Vegetarian option: Swap the herring for marinated, grilled aubergine slices or pickled mushrooms for a meat-free alternative.
- •
Texture swap: Smoked tofu can be used instead of Bismarck herring to mimic a similar texture and flavour.
- •
Secret touch: A small splash of apple cider vinegar in the crème fraîche lifts the flavours and adds a pleasant zing.
- •
Quick vegan and gluten-free adaptation: Use soy-based vegan crème fraîche and replace the herring with pickled seaweed or fermented vegetables for umami richness.
- •
The magic of this dish lies in the perfect balance between crispy potatoes and the zesty freshness of the herring.
📦 Storage
Store any leftover fried potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 1-2 days. Best to serve the Bismarck herring and herb crème fraîche fresh.
🍷 Pairing
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with dry white wines that have a crisp acidity to balance the salty notes of the herring. A German Riesling Kabinett from the Mosel or an Austrian Grüner Veltliner are ideal choices. For lovers of international wines, a chilled New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc makes a splendid alternative.
This Bismarck herring with crispy fried potatoes is a wonderfully straightforward yet flavour-packed dish that brings a touch of rustic charm to your table. The delightful contrast between crunchy potatoes, savoury herring and fresh herb crème fraîche makes it a timeless classic sure to please family and friends alike. Do give it a go at home – it’s a lovely way to share a taste of Northern Germany with those you love.
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