How to Make Traditional German Rollmops with Pickled Herring

Simple Summary

Rollmops with Pickled Herring is a classic German appetizer featuring tangy pickled herring fillets wrapped around savory fillings, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for vinegar mixture)
• Total Time: 35 minutes (plus 24 hours marinating)
• Servings: 4 (2 rollmops per serving)
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 8 pickled herring fillets
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 2 dill pickles, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 wooden toothpicks

Instructions

1. Rinse the pickled herring fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Lay each fillet flat on a cutting board and place a strip of pickle and a few capers at one end.

3. Carefully roll up the fillet around the filling, starting from the end with the pickle. Secure each rollmop with a wooden toothpick.

4. In a medium bowl, mix together the sliced onions, peppercorns, and bay leaves.

5. Arrange the rollmops in a glass jar or container, layering them with the onion mixture.

6. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.

7. Remove the vinegar mixture from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

8. Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the rollmops in the jar, ensuring they are completely covered.

9. Cover the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

10. Serve chilled, removing the toothpicks before eating.

Chef's Notes

• For a milder flavor, soak the pickled herring in milk for 30 minutes before preparing the rollmops.
• You can customize the filling with ingredients like mustard seeds, sliced apples, or chopped fresh dill.
• Rollmops will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them an excellent make-ahead appetizer.
• For a prettier presentation, you can tie the rollmops with a thin strip of leek instead of using toothpicks.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (2 rollmops): Approximately 180 calories. Rollmops are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. They also provide a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

Serving Suggestions

Serve rollmops as part of a traditional German appetizer platter alongside dark rye bread, butter, and sliced raw onions. They pair well with a cold German beer or a shot of aquavit. For a complete meal, serve with boiled potatoes and a crisp green salad. Rollmops are often enjoyed during holiday celebrations or as part of a festive brunch spread.