HOW MANY FERMENTED HERRINGS DO I NEED?
HOW TO SERVE SURSTRÖMMING
Typically, a serving of surströmming starts with 1-2 herrings per slice of buttered tunnbröd (a traditional Swedish flatbread), topped with delicacies like boiled potatoes, chopped red onion, sour cream, and fresh dill. For most people, 2 to 4 slices of this rich, flavorful combination are enough to satisfy. It’s a balanced way to savor the potent flavors of the fermented herring, and the bread and potatoes complement the fish perfectly.
FOR THE TRUE ENTHUSIASTS
Now, for the real enthusiasts, this experience becomes an indulgent feast! They might eat up to 6-12 herrings in one sitting. Each herring provides two fillets, so imagine piling up those fillets, soaking in the tangy brine, onto each slice of tunnbröd. The creamy butter melts into the bread, while the sour cream adds a rich tang that balances the sharpness of the herring. Paired with the sweetness of boiled potatoes and the bite of red onion, it’s a unique symphony of flavors that really hits the umami spot. For many, this is the ultimate way to experience the complex flavor of surströmming—rich, tangy, and bold.
GOING BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL
For those who want to go beyond the standard, skipping the bread altogether and simply enjoying surströmming with warm potatoes, butter, and maybe a cold beer, takes the dish to another level. The salty-sour richness of the fish pairs incredibly well with the creaminess of the butter, while the potatoes add substance. This is a true celebration of flavors for those who appreciate bold, daring cuisine. Each bite brings out the fish’s fermented depth, blending with the smoothness of butter and the earthiness of potatoes—a feast that embodies Nordic tradition and culinary courage.
THE SURSTRÖMMING EXPERIENCE
Whether you’re trying surströmming for the first time or you’re a seasoned enthusiast, it’s all about the balance of flavors. The pungent aroma may be strong, but the reward is in the unforgettable taste that many cherish. For the full Nordic experience, pair your meal with a cold beer or a shot of schnapps. This classic pairing enhances the rich and complex flavors of surströmming, adding a cool, crisp finish to each bite and making it a truly memorable experience. As you savor each bite, you’ll understand why surströmming is cherished across generations for its unique character and bold taste.
WHAT DOES IT TASTE LIKE?
What it Tastes Like: Surströmming has a unique flavor that’s both salty and sour with an intense umami profile. While the smell can be overwhelming, the taste itself is much milder and surprisingly complex, balancing rich, briny notes with a fermented sharpness. Accompaniments like potatoes and butter help mellow the flavors, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
LETTER FROM JAPAN
And a Letter from Japan: Recently, we received a curious letter from a surströmming fan in Japan with some rather interesting questions! This letter sparked a few laughs, reminding us of how far-reaching and intriguing surströmming’s appeal has become.