What To Know
- If removing the skin, use a sharp knife to make a small incision along the belly and carefully peel it back.
- You can check the temperature with a candy thermometer or by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil.
- Once the herring is cooked, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Herring, a small, oily fish, is a culinary treasure waiting to be discovered. With its delicate flavor and versatility, it’s no wonder this fish has been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries. While many prefer to enjoy herring in other forms, like pickled or smoked, frying offers a unique way to experience its deliciousness. This blog post will be your ultimate guide to mastering the art of how to fry herring fish, from selecting the perfect herring to achieving that crispy, golden-brown perfection.
Choosing the Right Herring
The first step to delicious fried herring is choosing the right fish. Opt for fresh herring, ideally caught within the last few days. Look for firm, shiny skin with a bright, fresh smell. Avoid any fish with a strong, fishy odor or soft flesh, as this indicates spoilage.
Preparing the Herring for Frying
Once you have your fresh herring, it’s time to prepare it for frying. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Clean and Gut: Rinse the herring under cold water and remove any scales. Cut off the head and tail, and then carefully gut the fish. Be sure to remove the internal organs and bloodline.
2. Scale and Skin (Optional): While some prefer to leave the skin on for a more rustic texture, removing it helps achieve a crispier fry. You can scale the herring with a fish scaler or a sharp knife. If removing the skin, use a sharp knife to make a small incision along the belly and carefully peel it back.
3. Seasoning: Season the herring generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to enhance the flavor.
4. Marinate (Optional): For extra flavor, you can marinate the herring in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for 30 minutes to an hour. This will tenderize the fish and infuse it with a citrusy aroma.
The Art of Battering
Battering the herring is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior. Here are a few techniques to try:
Traditional Flour Batter:
1. Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Dip the herring into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Shake off any excess flour.
Beer Batter:
1. Whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and ice-cold beer until smooth.
2. Dip the herring into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Let the excess batter drip off.
Tempura Batter:
1. Whisk together cornstarch, flour, and cold water until smooth.
2. Dip the herring into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Let the excess batter drip off.
Frying the Herring to Perfection
Now that your herring is prepped, it’s time to fry it to perfection. Here are some tips for achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior:
1. Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a skillet or deep fryer to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). You can check the temperature with a candy thermometer or by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
2. Fry in Batches: Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry the herring in batches of 2-3 pieces at a time to ensure even cooking.
3. Fry Time: Fry the herring for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish. If the flesh is opaque and flakes easily, it’s done.
4. Drain Excess Oil: Once the herring is cooked, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Serving Your Fried Herring
Serve your fried herring hot with your favorite sides. Some classic pairings include:
- Potato Salad: A creamy and tangy potato salad complements the rich flavor of the fried herring.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the fried fish.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the herring for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Dill Pickles: The tangy flavor of dill pickles cuts through the richness of the fried herring.
Beyond the Basic Fry: Creative Variations
While the basic fried herring recipe is delicious on its own, there are endless ways to get creative and elevate your culinary game. Here are a few ideas:
- Lemon-Herb Fried Herring: Marinate the herring in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme before frying.
- Spicy Fried Herring: Add a kick to your fried herring by incorporating chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce into the batter.
- Garlic-Butter Fried Herring: After frying, toss the herring in a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic for a rich, flavorful experience.
The End of the Fry: A Reflection on Flavor
While fried herring is a delicious dish on its own, it also serves as a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you prefer a classic batter or a more adventurous flavor profile, frying herring offers a unique and satisfying way to enjoy this versatile fish. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal, remember the simple joy of a perfectly fried herring.
What You Need to Know
1. Can I use frozen herring to fry?
Yes, you can use frozen herring, but it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before frying. This will ensure the fish cooks evenly and doesn’t become mushy.
2. How do I know if my oil is hot enough?
You can check the temperature of your oil with a candy thermometer, or you can drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
3. What are some other ways to cook herring?
Herring can be cooked in many ways, including baking, grilling, poaching, and smoking. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious fish.
4. Can I store leftover fried herring?
Yes, you can store leftover fried herring in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
5. What are some good side dishes to serve with fried herring?
Some good side dishes to serve with fried herring include potato salad, coleslaw, lemon wedges, dill pickles, and mashed potatoes.
