Growing up in a family that loved cooking, I was always curious about international dishes. On a trip to Northern Germany one summer, I found the matjesbrötchen recipe. It changed how I think about quick, tasty meals.
This pickled herring sandwich is more than food—it’s a taste of German coastal life. It’s ready in just 10 minutes. The matjesbrötchen mixes fresh herring, soft rolls, and bright toppings, showing off North German flavors.
The sandwich’s charm lies in its simplicity and deep flavors. The pickled herring is young and slightly sweet. It goes well with crisp onions and herbs. It’s a meal that’s easy to eat on the go and feels good for you.
Key Takeaways
- Quick 10-minute preparation time
- Approximately 300 calories per serving
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Perfect for summer lunches or light dinners
- Versatile with multiple topping options
Introduction to Matjesbrötchen
Exploring German coastal cuisine has always been exciting for me. Matjesbrötchen is a standout open-faced sandwich that embodies northern German food traditions.
This dish is more than a meal; it’s a cultural journey rooted in maritime heritage. It combines fresh herring with special ingredients, telling the story of coastal communities and their food ways.
Discovering Matjesbrötchen
At its heart, Matjesbrötchen is a traditional German sandwich with young, lightly salted herring. It’s known for:
- Young Matjes herring, marinated in brine
- Fresh rye bread as the base
- Thinly sliced red or spring onions
- Optional toppings like pickles and fresh dill
Historical Roots of a Culinary Tradition
The history of this dish goes back to old preservation methods in northern German coastal areas. Herring fishing was key to local economies, leading to creative ways to enjoy this seafood.
“Matjesbrötchen represents more than food – it’s a connection to our maritime history and cultural identity.” – Traditional German Chef
The herring season starts in late spring, fitting perfectly with local seafood traditions. This ensures the freshest ingredients for this beloved sandwich.
| Ingredient | Typical Quantity |
|---|---|
| Matjes Herring | 200g |
| Rye Bread | 50-60g |
| Red Onions | 20g |
| Fresh Dill | 5g |
From beer gardens to local festivals, Matjesbrötchen remains a favorite quick meal. It connects generations through its rich, flavorful tradition.
Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Matjesbrötchen
To make a real traditional Dutch snack like Matjesbrötchen, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients bring out the rich flavors of smoked herring. I’ll show you the must-haves and the nice-to-haves that make this sandwich stand out.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
A great Matjesbrötchen starts with top-notch ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4-6 fresh Matjes herring fillets
- Soft white rolls (Kaiser rolls preferred)
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley
Optional Ingredients to Elevate Your Sandwich
While the basic recipe is tasty, adding more ingredients can make it even better. Try these optional extras:
- Pickles for extra crunch
- Butter or mustard for spreading
- Lemon wedges for a bright finish
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Matjes Herring | 4-6 fillets | Primary protein source |
| Red Onion | ½ cup, sliced | Adds sharp flavor |
| Bread Rolls | 2 rolls | Base of the sandwich |
Pro tip: Soak your smoked herring in cold water for 15-20 minutes. This helps reduce saltiness and improves taste.
The secret to an amazing Matjesbrötchen lies in the quality of your ingredients and the love you put into preparing them.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Matjesbrötchen
Making Matjesbrötchen is like creating a work of art. It turns a simple snack into a fancy appetizer. I’ll show you how to make your German herring sandwich delicious and true to its roots.
Preparing the Herring
Begin by draining the matjes herring well. These young herring are mild, salty, and full of omega-3s. They taste sweet and are perfect for your sandwich. Use 4 fillets for each serving.
- Drain herring thoroughly
- Pat fillets dry with paper towels
- Slice fillets into appropriate sandwich sizes
Crafting the Toppings
The toppings make this snack truly special. Slice a medium red onion thinly. Also, get ready your other garnishes.
- Slice onions into delicate rings
- Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill
- Slice 2 small pickles
Assembling the Sandwich
Now, turn your ingredients into a tasty appetizer. Just follow these easy steps:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Kaiser Rolls | 4 rolls | Lightly toast |
| Mustard/Dill Sauce | 4 tablespoons | Spread on rolls |
| Herring Fillets | 4 fillets | Layer on bread |
| Red Onions | 1 medium | Sprinkle on top |
| Pickles | 2 small | Add as garnish |
Finish with fresh dill and a lemon wedge. Pro tip: Serve right away to keep your toppings crisp!
Tips for Choosing the Best Herring
Exploring Dutch street food means picking the right herring is key. It can make or break your matjesbrötchen. As a seafood lover, I’ve found not all herring is the same.
To enjoy pickled herring on bread, you need to know the difference between fresh and preserved. Matjes herring is a special delicacy with its own way of being prepared.
Fresh vs. Pickled Herring: What You Need to Know
Fresh herring tastes pure and delicate. Pickled herring adds a tangy flavor to your sandwich. Here’s how to pick the best herring:
- Choose firm, silvery fish without any color changes
- It should smell like the ocean but not too strong
- Make sure it’s stored and packaged correctly
Recommended Herring Brands
Some brands really make the matjesbrötchen special. Traditional German recipes often recommend Appel, Dorit, and Rugen Fisch. They offer top-notch matjes herring.
When you explore German culinary traditions, the right herring makes a big difference. Pro tip: Young herring (matjes) between 2-3 years old is the most flavorful.
Print
Delicious German Matjesbrötchen Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Matjesbrötchen is a classic German fish sandwich, particularly popular in Northern Germany. It features a fresh bread roll filled with mild, pickled herring (Matjes), onions, pickles, and a creamy sauce, delivering a perfect balance of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. Often enjoyed at fish markets and seaside towns, this simple yet delicious sandwich is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Matjesbrötchen is a classic German fish sandwich, particularly popular in Northern Germany. It features a fresh bread roll filled with mild, pickled herring (Matjes), onions, pickles, and a creamy sauce, delivering a perfect balance of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. Often enjoyed at fish markets and seaside towns, this simple yet delicious sandwich is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Instructions
1. Slice the bread rolls in half and lightly toast if desired.
2. In a small bowl, mix crème fraîche (or mayonnaise), mustard, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Season with black pepper.
3. Spread the sauce on the bottom half of each roll.
4. Place a Matjes herring fillet on top of the sauce.
5. Add thinly sliced red onions and pickles.
6. Optionally, add lettuce for extra crunch.
7. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bread roll.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your authentic German Matjesbrötchen!
Notes
• Traditional Matjes herring is mild and less salty than regular pickled herring. Ensure you use authentic Matjes for the best flavor.
• You can substitute crème fraîche with yogurt for a lighter version.
• Serve with a side of potato salad or fries for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwich, Snack
- Method: Assembled
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Matjesbrötchen, German fish sandwich, pickled herring sandwich, seafood, Northern German cuisine
Serving Suggestions for Matjesbrötchen
Discovering the perfect accompaniments can transform your matjesbrötchen recipe from good to extraordinary. In Dutch cuisine, these delightful herring sandwiches offer incredible versatility for different dining experiences.
Ideal Pairings
When serving matjesbrötchen, consider these classic combinations that elevate the dish:
- Crisp green salad with light vinaigrette
- Boiled new potatoes
- Chilled German beer or sparkling water
- Traditional potato salad
Creative Serving Ideas
I love experimenting with different presentation styles for this classic dutch cuisine favorite. Here are some innovative ways to serve matjesbrötchen:
- Party appetizer platter with miniature sandwiches
- Picnic-style spread with multiple toppings
- Elegant brunch centerpiece
- Casual lunch with fresh garnishes
Remember that Matjesbrötchen typically serves 2 sandwiches and contains around 250 calories per serving. For the best experience, keep your herring chilled below 40°F and select fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Matjesbrötchen is incredibly versatile. It’s a traditional Dutch snack that invites creativity. You can add your own touches to make it unique.
Spicy Versions to Elevate Flavor
I enjoy trying spicy twists on this classic dish. Here are some ideas:
- Sprinkle chili flakes over the herring for a quick kick
- Spread spicy mustard as a zesty base layer
- Add pickled jalapeños for unexpected heat
Vegetarian Alternatives
For those who prefer plant-based options, there are tasty alternatives. Marinated vegetables can mimic herring’s texture and flavor.
- Marinated eggplant strips seasoned with dill
- Pickled mushrooms with white wine vinegar
- Smoked tofu cubes with traditional herring spices
Every variation celebrates Matjesbrötchen’s spirit. It offers new taste experiences. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
How to Store Leftover Matjesbrötchen
Keeping your pickled herring sandwich fresh is important. I’ll share tips to help you enjoy every bite of your matjesbrötchen.
Refrigeration Essentials
Storing your matjesbrötchen right is key. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Place it in the coldest part of the fridge, below 40°F (4°C).
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil
- Use a container with a secure lid
- Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator
Shelf Life and Freshness
Eat your matjesbrötchen within 24-48 hours for the best taste. Fresh herring makes a great sandwich experience. Quality drops after two days, so enjoy them fast.
| Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Quality Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (Airtight Container) | 2 days | Best flavor and texture |
| Wrapped in Plastic/Foil | 1-2 days | Good quality |
Pro tip: Separate sandwiches with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This keeps your pickled herring sandwich fresh and delicious.
Nutritional Information of Matjesbrötchen
Exploring Matjesbrötchen, a delightful appetizer, reveals its nutritional value. It’s not just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients that boost your health.
Caloric Breakdown
A serving of Matjesbrötchen has a moderate calorie count. Here’s what you get:
- Total Calories per Serving: 300
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
Health Benefits of Herring
Smoked herring is a nutritional powerhouse. It offers many health benefits:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | Health Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.8g | Supports heart and brain health |
| Vitamin D | 15μg | Strengthens bone health |
| Vitamin B12 | 10μg | Enhances nervous system function |
The rich nutritional profile of Matjesbrötchen makes it more than a snack. It combines herring, whole-grain bread, and veggies for a balanced meal. This supports your wellness journey.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making dutch street food like Matjesbrötchen can sometimes be tricky. Even experienced cooks face problems. I’ll guide you through common issues and solutions to make the perfect sandwich every time.
Managing Overly Salty Herring
Saltiness is a common problem with herring. But, there are easy fixes to balance the taste. When picking your bread, try these tips:
- Soak herring in cold water or milk for 15-30 minutes
- Rinse the fillets gently under cool water
- Pat dry with paper towels
- Add a splash of lemon juice to neutralize excess salt
Resolving Soft Bread Problems
Soggy bread can mess up your Matjesbrötchen. Here’s how to avoid it:
- Lightly toast the bread rolls
- Add a thin layer of lettuce as a moisture barrier
- Assemble the sandwich just before serving
- Store ingredients separately if preparing in advance
| Issue | Solution | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Salty Herring | Milk/Water Soak | 15-30 minutes |
| Soft Bread | Light Toasting | 2-3 minutes |
| Flavor Balance | Lemon Juice | Instant |
With these tips, you’ll make delicious Matjesbrötchen like a pro soon. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Making Matjesbrötchen
My journey with the matjesbrötchen recipe has been amazing. It connects me to German coastal cuisine’s rich traditions. This traditional Dutch snack is more than a sandwich. It’s a delightful experience that brings Northern Europe’s flavors to your kitchen in just 10 minutes.
Making Matjesbrötchen is simple and rewarding. You need just a few ingredients like fresh herring, bread rolls, and basic toppings. You get a protein-packed meal with about 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and tastes great, showing centuries of culinary heritage.
If you want to try new recipes or connect with German food culture, this recipe is perfect. The sandwich is versatile, allowing for personal creativity while staying true to its roots. I encourage you to try this culinary tradition and enjoy the unique flavors that have made Matjesbrötchen a beloved staple in Northern Europe.
My Personal Experience
Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of its cultural significance. The mix of tender herring, fresh bread, and simple toppings makes a meal that’s both nostalgic and exciting. My advice? Don’t be intimidated – dive in and enjoy the process!
Encouragement to Try It Yourself
Now you have the knowledge and techniques to make an authentic Matjesbrötchen. It would make any German food enthusiast proud. Try it and find a new favorite sandwich that brings a piece of German culinary tradition to your table.