While the Dutch and the Scandinavians are known for their love for herring, the Poles are not far behind. Polish people love their herring. The fish is easily available, fresh and is extremely healthy. That is why you will notice that many people choose to use herring as part of their snacks and diets.
Interestingly enough there are a number of really simple herring recipes that are quick to whip up. This is because herring is really easy to cook and the fish in itself is packed with flavor. One of the popular recipes in use throughout the year is Polish herring in tomato sauce. All you need is six ingredients for this recipe and the prep time is just 10 minutes with an additional 10 minutes for cooking.
Polish Herring In Tomato Sauce Recipe
Part I – Wash And Cut The Herring
This recipe uses 6 salted herring filets. Make sure that you rinse off the herring filets before use. This will remove any excess salt. Cut the herring into pieces. The size of the pieces is totally up to you as it is an individual preference.
Part II – Season With Salt And Pepper
The next step is to season with salt and pepper. This is as per taste. Keep in mind that you are using salted meat for this recipe and adjust your salt accordingly. Add 1 tbsp. of vinegar to the herring and mix well.

Part III – Refrigerate For At Least An Hour
This is the only time consuming part of the recipe. On the flip side, you can prepare the herring and keep it overnight which really adds to the flavor. You can then remove it and cook it the next day as and when required.
Part IV – Peel and Slice The Onions Into Half Moons
Part V – Fry The Onions
Add 6 tbsps. of oil into a pan and heat. Add in the onions and ¼ tsp of sugar. Cover with a lid. When you are done frying the onions, set them aside to cool.

Part VI – Mix Herrings With Onion And Tomato Paste. Serve Cold.

FAQ About Polish Herring In Tomato Sauce
Can You Use Fresh Herring For This Recipe?
The Polish herring in tomato sauce recipe requires salted herring. The texture of the salted meat is very different from fresh herring. Most people prefer to use this recipe when there is no fresh herring in the market.
Why Is The Herring Kept Overnight In The Refrigerator?
The herring is kept overnight in the refrigerator so that it absorbs the seasoning. The vinegar in the mixture helps tenderize and add flavor to the meat. This is what gives the Polish herring in tomato sauce its characteristic tangy flavor.
How Long Can I Keep Polish Herring In Tomato Sauce In The Fridge?
You can keep it for up to a week.
Polish Herring In Tomato Sauce
Polish Herring In Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients
- 6 salted herring fillets
- 1 tbsp of vinegar
- 1 big onion
- 6 tbsps of oil
- ¼ tsp of sugar
- 1 tbsp of tomato paste (koncentrat pomidorowy)
Instructions
- Wash and cut the herrings into slices of your choice.
- Season with salt and pepper, add 1 tbsp of vinegar, and mix.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
- Peel and slice the onions into half moons.
- Fry onion in oil and sugar, with the lid on. Allow to cool.
- Mix herrings with onion and tomato paste. Serve cold.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 220Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 32mgSodium: 37mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 10g
These data are indicative and calculated by Nutritionix