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Forkin
SnackAppetizer

Hollandse Nieuwe Haring

A classic Dutch snack featuring tender, lightly brined herring served with finely chopped raw onion and pickles. This simple, no-cook recipe highlights the delicate flavor of the fish and is traditionally enjoyed by holding the herring by its tail.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
10 min
Serves
2
Difficulty
Easy

Allergen information: may contain fish. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Hollandse Nieuwe Haring

Mise en place

Ingredients

  • 2 pcssoused herring fillet, also known as matjes herring
  • 50 gwhite onion, finely chopped
  • 50 ggherkin, finely chopped
  • 2 pcssoft white bun, sliced(optional)

Equipment

paper towels · cutting board · knife

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Finely chop the white onion and gherkins, then set them aside.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: For a milder flavor, you can briefly rinse the chopped onion under cold water and pat it dry.

  2. 2

    Gently pat the soused herring fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess brine.

    About 2 min

  3. 3

    Arrange the herring fillets on a serving plate.

    About 1 min

  4. 4

    Generously sprinkle the chopped onion and gherkins over and around the herring.

    About 1 min

  5. 5

    Serve immediately. Enjoy the herring on its own, or place it inside a sliced soft white bun for a classic 'broodje haring'.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: The traditional way to eat the herring on its own is to hold it by the tail, tilt your head back, and take a bite.

Keep it good

Storage

This dish is best enjoyed fresh; store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

This dish is served cold and should not be reheated.