Surströmming Recipe: A Guide to the Swedish Delicacy

Surströmming, the infamous fermented herring from Sweden, is a dish that evokes strong reactions. For some, it’s a culinary delight, while for others, it’s a challenge to their senses. This guide will walk you through the surströmming recipe, helping you understand its cultural significance, preparation tips, and how to best enjoy it.

What is Surströmming?

Surströmming translates to “soured herring” and is made from Baltic Sea herring that has been fermented for several months. This traditional dish has been a part of Swedish cuisine since the 16th century and is often enjoyed during special occasions, particularly in late summer.

Key Ingredients for Surströmming

To prepare surströmming, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Herring: Freshly caught Baltic herring is essential.
• Salt: To aide in the fermentation process.
• Water: For brining.
• Sugar (optional): Some recipes suggest adding a bit of sugar to balance the flavors.

How to Prepare Surströmming

Step 1: Selecting and Cleaning the Herring

1. Choose Fresh Herring: Opt for the freshest herring possible, ideally caught within a few days.
2. Clean the Fish: Remove the heads and guts, ensuring you have clean herring fillets.

Step 2: Brining the Herring

1. Prepare the Brine: In a large container, mix water and salt in a ratio of about 10:1 (water to salt).
2. Brine the Herring: Submerge the cleaned herring fillets in the brine, ensuring they are fully covered. Seal the container tightly and leave it in a cool place for about 6 to 8 weeks.

Step 3: Fermentation Process

1. Check the Herring: After 6 weeks, check the herring for fermentation. It should have developed a strong smell and a tangy flavor.
2. Taste Test: If it meets your expectations, it is ready. If not, allow it to ferment for an additional week or two.

Serving Suggestions for Surströmming

Surströmming is traditionally served with:

• Flatbread: Soft, flat crispbreads or rye bread.
• Potatoes: Boiled or new potatoes are a common side.
• Onions: Finely chopped onions enhance the flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can balance the taste.
• Beer: A typical drink pairing is a light beer or schnapps.

Surströmming Tasting Tips

• Be Mindful of the Smell: The aroma can be overwhelming; serve in a well-ventilated area.
• Use a Proper Serving Plate: Consider using a large plate to catch any juices from the fish.
• Accompany with Sides: Have all sides prepped before serving to make it an enjoyable experience.

Surströmming: A Cultural Experience

Eating surströmming is not just a meal; it’s also a tradition that brings people together. Many Swedes celebrate Surströmmingspremiär, the official start of the surströmming season, on the third Thursday of August. Gatherings often involve friends and family, lively conversations, and sometimes even competitions to see who can handle the smell the best!

Conclusion

Making and enjoying surströmming can be an adventurous culinary experience. While the preparation may require patience, the final product offers a unique taste of Swedish culture. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of fermented foods or a curious newcomer, embracing this traditional dish will certainly enrich your culinary repertoire.

Call to Action

Ready to try your hand at making surströmming? Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and dive into this unique Swedish tradition. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how it turned out!