Herring — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Herring should have a shiny, silver exterior with a firm body. The skin should be tight and unbroken, covering moist flesh that springs back when pressed.

Avoid herring that smells overly fishy or has dull, dry skin. Fresh herring should have a clean, briny scent indicative of the sea and a flavor that is subtly sweet.

Fresh herring should be kept cold in the refrigerator. Store it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. Using this method ensures that herring retains its quality.

Incorrect storage can lead to a strong, unpleasant odor. Avoid refreezing herring once thawed, as this can affect its texture. Maintaining proper refrigeration is key to keeping herring delicious and safe to eat.

Herring can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, herring can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Proper packaging, such as vacuum-sealing, helps maintain its quality over longer storage periods.

Leftover herring can be used in a variety of savory dishes. Flake the fish and add it to salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a rich, briny flavor, or mix it into a pasta dish with a light cream or tomato sauce. Herring is also great in seafood spreads or dips, where it can be blended with cream cheese, sour cream, or mayonnaise.

Use herring as a topping for crackers or bread, paired with pickles, onions, and capers for a Scandinavian-inspired appetizer. If you have a lot of herring, consider making a batch of herring salad with potatoes, beets, and a tangy dressing, perfect for serving with rye bread. Herring can also be added to potato salads or mixed into a fish cake mixture with breadcrumbs and eggs, then fried until golden. For a quick snack, enjoy herring straight from the jar or can, paired with sliced cucumber or radishes.