Classic Russian Herring Under a Fur Coat Recipe

Ingredients

  • 200 grams of salted herring
  • 4 medium potatoes
  • 4 medium beets
  • 4 medium carrots
  • 1 large onion
  • 4 large eggs
  • 200 grams of mayonnaise
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Begin by boiling the potatoes, beets, and carrots until they are soft. This can take up to 40 minutes. Once done, let them cool down.
  2. In a separate pot, boil the eggs for about 10 minutes. Once boiled, plunge them into cold water and let them cool before peeling.
  3. While the vegetables and eggs are cooling, finely chop the onion and herring and set them aside.
  4. Peel and grate the cooled potatoes, beets, carrots, and eggs separately.
  5. Start layering the salad in a deep dish. Begin with a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of herring, then a layer of onions. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the onions.
  6. Continue the layering with a layer of carrots, followed by a layer of beets. Spread another thin layer of mayonnaise over the beets.
  7. Finish the dish with a final layer of grated eggs and a thin layer of mayonnaise.
  8. Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Tools for making

  • Knife - For chopping onions and herring.
  • Potato peeler - To peel the potatoes, beets, and carrots.
  • Grater - To grate the cooled vegetables and eggs.
  • Deep dish - To layer the salad.
  • Spoon - To spread the mayonnaise and assist in layering.
  • Pot - For boiling the vegetables and eggs.
  • Plunger - To cool the boiled eggs quickly.

Recipe variations

  • Use smoked herring instead of salted herring for a different flavor.
  • Replace potatoes with boiled and mashed sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
  • Add a layer of thinly sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
  • Include a layer of thinly sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
  • Substitute mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
  • Add a layer of pickles or pickled vegetables for added tanginess.
  • Incorporate a layer of cooked and seasoned ground meat, such as beef or chicken, for a meaty variation.
  • Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top for extra freshness and herbaceousness.
  • Replace the traditional layering with individual servings in small glasses or jars for a more elegant presentation.

Recipe overview

Herring under a fur coat, also known as "shuba", is a traditional Russian layered salad. Composed of simple ingredients like salted herring, boiled vegetables, and eggs, this dish is an explosion of flavors with every bite. With its vibrant layers and unique combination of ingredients, it's a festive dish often served during the holidays. Although it requires some time and patience to assemble, the end result is exceptionally rewarding. Expect a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, with the saltiness of the herring perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the beets and the creaminess of the mayonnaise. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this traditional Russian classic.

Common questions

  1. Can I use fresh herring instead of salted herring? - Yes, you can use fresh herring if you prefer. However, the traditional recipe calls for salted herring for its distinct flavor.
  2. Do I need to peel the vegetables before boiling them? - Yes, it is recommended to peel the potatoes, beets, and carrots before boiling them.
  3. Can I use a different type of dressing instead of mayonnaise? - While mayonnaise is the traditional dressing for this recipe, you can use alternatives like sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
  4. How long does it take for the salad to set in the refrigerator? - It is best to let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to blend together.
  5. Can I make this salad in advance? - Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Knife - A sharp knife is essential for chopping and slicing the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - Use a cutting board to safely and conveniently chop the vegetables and herring.
  • Grater - A grater is necessary for grating the cooked potatoes, beets, carrots, and eggs.
  • Deep dish - A deep dish or casserole dish is ideal for layering and serving the herring under a fur coat.
  • Spatula - A spatula or spoon can be used to spread the mayonnaise evenly over each layer.
  • Refrigerator - A refrigerator is needed to chill the salad before serving.

Origin stories

Herring under a fur coat, is not simply a salad, it's a symbol of celebration in Russian hearts. Its origin is traced back to the 1970s, during Soviet times. In a bid to increase the sales of herring, Anastas Bogomilov, the director of the Moscow Food Industry Department, initiated a competition for a new herring dish. The winning recipe, 'Herring under a fur coat', was a hit. It owes its peculiar name to its layered structure - layers of vegetables and herring, with colours replicating a fur coat. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple dish during New Year celebrations. The rich, multi-layered structure of the dish has a striking similarity to the Russian culture itself, where every layer tells a story of its rich history and traditions.

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.