This classic Scandinavian Sillgratin is a comforting and elegant main dish that balances the earthy richness of boiled potatoes with the delicate, briny sweetness of matjes herring. The layers are bound together by a warm cream sauce, topped with crisp breadcrumbs and butter for a perfect textural contrast. It is an excellent choice for dinner parties or special family meals, offering a sophisticated yet home-style flavor profile. The dish requires minimal hands-on time, making it an impressive yet manageable option for entertaining. Serve it warm directly from the baking dish for the best experience.
Sillgratin (Herring & Potato Casserole
Description
This classic Scandinavian Sillgratin is a comforting and elegant main dish that balances the earthy richness of boiled potatoes with the delicate, briny sweetness of matjes herring. The layers are bound together by a warm cream sauce, topped with crisp breadcrumbs and butter for a perfect textural contrast. It is an excellent choice for dinner parties or special family meals, offering a sophisticated yet home-style flavor profile. The dish requires minimal hands-on time, making it an impressive yet manageable option for entertaining. Serve it warm directly from the baking dish for the best experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400&# 194;°F (200ðC).
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Place potato slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent discoloration while preparing other ingredients.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a small frying pan over medium heat.
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When the foam subsides, add thinly sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent but not brown.
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Remove onions from heat and set aside.
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Butter a 1 to 1.5 quart baking dish with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of butter.
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Drain potato slices and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.
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Arrange alternate layers of potatoes, herring fillets, and sautéed onions in the baking dish, ending with a layer of potatoes.
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Season each layer lightly with freshly ground black pepper.
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Sprinkle the top layer with fine bread crumbs and dot with tiny bits of butter.
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Pour heavy cream over the assembled layers.
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Place the dish on the stovetop and bring the cream to a boil.
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Transfer the dish to the center of the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
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Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a sharp knife or skewer; they should be tender.
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Serve directly from the baking dish.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 57.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.8g5%
- Dietary Fiber 1.7g7%
- Sugars 0.6g
- Protein 1.5g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure the cream is brought to a boil on the stovetop before baking to help cook the potatoes evenly and quickly.
Matjes herring is young, tender herring cured in brine. It has a distinct sweet and salty flavor. If unavailable, pickled herring can be used but may be saltier.
Do not brown the onions; they should remain sweet and soft to complement the delicate fish.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
