Pickled herring, or “sel’d” in Russian, is a beloved dish in Russian cuisine, often seen as both a symbol of Russian culinary heritage and a staple of festive meals. With its distinctive salty, sour, and tangy flavor, pickled herring has been a part of Russian food culture for centuries, and its popularity continues to endure. This dish is often associated with celebrations, holidays, and even everyday meals, enjoyed by people of all ages.
If you’re visiting Russia or simply exploring Russian cuisine, understanding why Russians love pickled herring and how to enjoy it properly can add a unique dimension to your culinary journey. This guide will delve into the reasons behind the dish’s enduring appeal, its cultural significance, and the best ways to eat it.
1. The Cultural Significance of Pickled Herring in Russia
Pickled herring has deep cultural roots in Russia, and its place in Russian food culture is tied to both practicality and tradition.
Historical Roots
Herring has long been an important part of the Russian diet. The tradition of pickling herring likely dates back to the time of the Byzantine Empire, when the Russians were introduced to the art of preserving fish through salting and pickling. The abundance of fish in Russia’s many rivers, lakes, and seas, especially in the northern regions, made it an affordable and accessible food source for the people.
Pickling was a method of preserving fish for long winters when fresh fish was scarce. Over time, this preservation technique became more refined, and pickled herring became a central ingredient in many Russian meals.
A Symbol of Celebration
Pickled herring is often present at important occasions, particularly holidays like New Year’s Eve, Christmas, and Easter. It’s also a common dish at family gatherings and social celebrations. In Russia, sharing food like pickled herring is seen as an act of hospitality, and it is typically served to guests as part of a larger spread of traditional appetizers, known as zakuski (small snacks or hors d’oeuvres).
Pickled herring is also part of the iconic “Olivier salad”, a dish that’s frequently enjoyed during festive meals, and often accompanies other traditional drinks like vodka.
2. Why Russians Love Pickled Herring
Russians love pickled herring for several reasons, ranging from its taste and versatility to its cultural significance.
Flavor Profile
Pickled herring’s unique flavor—salty, sour, and umami—makes it a distinctive and satisfying snack or meal. The fish absorbs the flavors of the brine, which typically contains vinegar, salt, sugar, spices, and sometimes onions or mustard seeds. This balance of flavors creates a refreshing contrast to richer or heavier dishes, especially when paired with foods like potatoes, bread, or sour cream.
Versatility
Pickled herring can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be served as a main dish, paired with side dishes, or enjoyed on its own as part of a spread. Its versatility makes it suitable for salads, sandwiches, and even soups.
Cultural Comfort
For many Russians, pickled herring is a comfort food. It has a nostalgic quality, reminding people of family gatherings, holidays, and traditions. The taste and preparation of pickled herring can evoke memories of home-cooked meals and shared moments with loved ones. In Russia, offering pickled herring to guests is a way to express generosity and warmth.
Health Benefits
Fish, especially herring, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins. The pickling process helps retain many of the fish’s health benefits while adding additional flavors. Additionally, the vinegar used in the pickling process is believed to have certain digestive benefits, which is why pickled herring is often paired with other rich or heavy foods.
3. How to Eat Pickled Herring the Russian Way
Now that you know why Russians love pickled herring, let’s talk about the right way to enjoy it! Russians have developed specific customs and traditions around eating pickled herring, and following these can enhance the experience.
1. With Rye Bread and Butter
The simplest and most classic way to eat pickled herring in Russia is on a slice of dark rye bread (called borodinsky bread). The bread serves as a base for the fish and complements its salty and tangy flavor. Russians often spread a layer of butter on the bread before placing the herring on top. The richness of the butter balances out the sourness of the herring and adds a smooth texture.
2. As Part of a Zakuski Spread
Pickled herring is often served as part of a larger spread of zakuski during celebrations. It might be accompanied by other traditional snacks like:
- Pickled vegetables (e.g., cucumbers, mushrooms)
- Olives
- Cold meats (e.g., smoked sausage or salami)
- Cheese
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Olivier salad (a traditional Russian potato salad)
These foods provide a variety of textures and flavors that complement the boldness of the pickled herring. Eating herring in this context is often done in small bites, savoring each item alongside others on the table.
3. In Salads
Pickled herring is often used in traditional Russian salads. One of the most famous is the Herring Under a Fur Coat salad (“Shuba”). This layered salad includes pickled herring at the bottom, followed by layers of boiled potatoes, onions, beets, and mayonnaise. It is a popular dish for holiday celebrations and offers a sweet and savory contrast to the briny flavor of the herring.
4. With Sour Cream and Onions
Another common way to enjoy pickled herring is with sour cream and onions. The sour cream adds a creamy richness that helps mellow out the herring’s tangy and salty flavor, while the onions provide a crunchy texture and sharpness. This combination can be served on bread or eaten on its own as a snack.
5. With Vodka
In Russia, it’s customary to enjoy pickled herring with a shot of vodka, especially at festive occasions. The briny, rich flavors of the herring pair perfectly with the sharpness of vodka, which cuts through the richness and cleanses the palate. It’s common to take a sip of vodka after a bite of herring and follow the ritual of making a toast.
6. In Soups
Pickled herring is occasionally used in Russian soups, such as herring soup (“selyodka pod shuba”), though this is less common. The soup often contains boiled potatoes, carrots, and onions, with the pickled herring adding a depth of flavor and a salty, tangy bite.
4. Where to Try Pickled Herring in Russia
While pickled herring can be found in nearly every restaurant, café, and supermarket across Russia, there are specific regions where the tradition of pickled herring is particularly strong.
St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, the former capital of Russia, is one of the best places to try pickled herring. The city’s proximity to the Baltic Sea and its strong ties to European culinary traditions make it a great destination for tasting high-quality pickled fish. Restaurants here often feature smoked, pickled, and salted herring on their menus, offering different regional varieties and unique preparations.
Moscow
In Moscow, you’ll find pickled herring served at traditional Russian restaurants, especially those that focus on Russian zakuski or Soviet-era dining experiences. Some upscale restaurants offer more creative variations of pickled herring, incorporating modern techniques and presentation styles.
Small Villages and Rural Areas
In smaller Russian towns and villages, pickled herring may be served as a homemade dish, often as part of a more rustic spread during family gatherings. These herring dishes are often accompanied by homemade bread and pickled vegetables.
Conclusion: The Enduring Love for Pickled Herring
Pickled herring holds a special place in Russian culinary traditions. It’s a food that brings people together, whether it’s served at a festive table, shared among family and friends, or enjoyed as a snack on a quiet evening. Its unique combination of salty, sour, and umami flavors, along with its rich history and cultural significance, make it a beloved dish in Russian cuisine.
For tourists visiting Russia, tasting pickled herring offers an authentic experience that connects you with Russian food culture. Whether you enjoy it on rye bread with butter, in a salad, or as part of a larger spread of zakuski, pickled herring is an essential part of Russian culinary life that every visitor should try.
