Authentic Dutch Haringbroodje (Herring Sandwich) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 fresh herring fillet
  • 1 soft white roll
  • 2 slices of dill pickle
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 tablespoon of mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Clean the herring fillet by removing any bones and skin, then slice it into thin pieces.
  2. Cut the soft white roll in half.
  3. Spread a tablespoon of mayonnaise on each half of the roll.
  4. Place the sliced herring on one half of the roll.
  5. Slice the red onion thinly and distribute it evenly over the herring.
  6. Add the slices of dill pickle on top of the onion.
  7. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the pickle slices.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Place the second half of the roll on top, creating a sandwich.
  10. Serve immediately, or wrap in foil and refrigerate to let the flavors meld together.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of bread such as whole wheat, rye, or a crusty baguette.
  • Replace the herring with another type of fish such as smoked salmon or sardines.
  • Add additional toppings such as sliced cucumber, tomato, or lettuce.
  • Include a spread such as cream cheese, tartar sauce, or mustard.
  • Make it a vegetarian option by substituting the herring with marinated tofu or grilled vegetables.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as parsley, chives, or paprika.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus flavor.
  • Toast the bread for a crunchy texture.
  • Include some capers or olives for an extra briny taste.
  • Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

Recipe overview

Haringbroodje is a delightful Dutch sandwich that features fresh herring as its star ingredient. This traditional delicacy is a favorite in the Netherlands, especially in coastal areas where herring is abundantly available. The herring is complemented by sharp red onion, tangy dill pickle, creamy mayonnaise, and aromatic fresh dill, all served on a soft white roll. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or snack. Expect a unique and flavorful sandwich that offers a true taste of Dutch cuisine. Enjoy it fresh or let it sit for a while to let the flavors meld together, resulting in an even more satisfying bite.

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen herring fillet instead of fresh? Frozen herring fillet can be used, but it is recommended to thaw it completely before using it in the recipe.
  2. Can I substitute the soft white roll with another type of bread? Yes, you can use other bread varieties such as a baguette or a sandwich roll if you prefer.
  3. Can I skip the red onion? If you don't enjoy the taste of raw red onion, you can omit it or substitute it with thinly sliced shallots or spring onions.
  4. What can I use instead of dill pickle? If you don't have dill pickles, you can try using sweet pickles or pickled cucumbers for a different flavor.
  5. Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich? Absolutely! Feel free to customize your haringbroodje by adding ingredients like lettuce, tomato slices, or capers.
  6. Is it necessary to refrigerate the sandwich? Refrigerating the sandwich for a while after assembling can help the flavors meld together, but it can be served immediately if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for slicing the herring fillet and preparing the ingredients.
  • Sharp knife - Essential for cleaning the herring fillet, slicing the roll, and cutting the onion and pickle.
  • Spreader or knife - Used to evenly spread the mayonnaise on the roll.
  • Plate - To serve the haringbroodje sandwich.
  • Foil - Optional, for wrapping the sandwich if preparing it ahead of time.

Origin stories

Haringbroodje's roots can be traced back to the Netherlands, where herring has been a staple food source for centuries. The Dutch have been fishing for herring since the Middle Ages, and their love for this fish is reflected in their traditional dishes, including the Haringbroodje. This popular street food is typically enjoyed with a local beer and is often found at food stalls near the water, symbolizing the deep connection of the Dutch people with the sea. In fact, every year in the Netherlands, there's a day devoted to the start of the new herring season called "Vlaggetjesdag" or "Flag Day", where the first barrel of herring is auctioned off and the proceeds go to charity. Haringbroodje is a true testament to the Dutch's long-standing maritime tradition and their fondness for simple, fresh flavors.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.