Description
This Matjesbrötchen recipe brings the authentic flavors of North German cuisine to your kitchen. Featuring mildly pickled Matjes herring, crisp red onions, tangy dill pickles, and a creamy spread on a fresh crusty Brötchen roll, this sandwich is a staple of German fish markets. Light, refreshing, and packed with umami, it’s the perfect quick meal or snack for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
- 2 fresh Brötchen (or crusty Kaiser rolls)
- 4 fillets Matjes herring, lightly pickled
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 4-6 slices dill pickles
- 2 tbsp crème fraîche or sour cream
- 1 tsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
- ½ tsp fresh dill, chopped
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 tsp German mustard, for extra tang
- 2 leaves lettuce or arugula, for added crunch
- 1 small radish, thinly sliced for extra bite
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the Brötchen in half and lightly toast if desired.
- Pat the Matjes herring fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess brine.
- Thinly slice the red onion and pickles, ensuring even layers for the sandwich.
Step 2: Assemble the Matjesbrötchen
- Spread crème fraîche or butter on both halves of the Brötchen.
- Place 2 Matjes fillets on the bottom half of each roll.
- Layer the red onions and pickles over the herring.
- Sprinkle with chopped dill, a few drops of lemon juice, and a dash of black pepper.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Close the sandwich gently without pressing too hard.
- Let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately with a side of German potato salad or crispy fries.
Notes
- Bread Choice: Traditional Brötchen is best, but a crusty baguette or Kaiser roll works well too.
- Herring Variations: If Matjes herring is unavailable, lightly pickled herring fillets can be used as a substitute.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with sparkling water with lemon or herbal tea for a refreshing balance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Snack
- Method: No-Cook, Assembled
- Cuisine: German, North German