Festive “Herring Sushi” Rolls

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s both elegant and incredibly delicious for your holiday table? These Festive “Herring Sushi” Rolls are a wonderful choice! They’re visually appealing, surprisingly easy to make, and can even be prepared ahead of time, making your entertaining stress-free. They’re perfect for Christmas, New Year’s, or any special gathering.

Ingredients:

  • Herring Fillets: 2 pieces (pre-marinated or lightly salted work best)
  • Potatoes: 4 medium-sized
  • Pickled Beets: 2 tablespoons (finely chopped or grated)
  • Onions: 2 medium-sized
  • Nutmeg: A pinch (freshly grated if possible for the best flavor!)
  • Ground Red Pepper: A pinch (paprika for mildness or a tiny bit of chili for a kick!)
  • Salt: To taste
  • Cooking Oil: 4 tablespoons (for sautéing)

Optional Richness (If not serving for a Lenten meal, like Christmas Eve):

  • Mayonnaise: 1-2 tablespoons
  • Grated Hard Cheese: A small amount (adds a lovely savory note!)

Preparation:

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive dish.

  1. Sauté the Onions: Finely dice the onions and sauté them in the cooking oil until they turn beautifully golden brown and fragrant. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Potato Mash: Boil the potatoes until they are tender. Drain them well and mash them thoroughly. To the mashed potatoes, add the pinch of nutmeg, ground red pepper, and salt to taste. Now, stir in the sautéed onions along with the oil they were cooked in. Mix everything really well until combined.
    • Optional Step: If you’re using mayonnaise and/or grated cheese, now is the time to fold them into the potato mixture for an even creamier and richer filling.
  3. Lay Out the Herring: Carefully lay out each herring fillet flat on a cutting board. If your fillets are particularly wide, you can slice them lengthwise in half to create two narrower pieces – this will give you more rolls!
  4. Assemble the Layers: Evenly spread a layer of the seasoned potato mash over each piece of herring fillet. On top of the potato, add a thin, even layer of the finely chopped or grated pickled beets.
  5. Roll ‘Em Up! Gently and carefully roll up each filled herring fillet, starting from one end. Aim for a neat, compact roll, similar to how you would make sushi or a savory roulade.
  6. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolls into individual “sushi” pieces. For a festive presentation, garnish each serving with fresh sprigs of dill or finely chopped green onions.

Your Festive “Herring Sushi” Rolls are now ready to impress your guests! Enjoy this unique and delicious appetizer. Bon Appétit!