Are you ready to take your culinary skills to the next level? Look no further! In this article, we’re diving into the world of tangy and delicious pickled fish recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these 18 mouth-watering recipes are sure to impress.
From classic Scandinavian dishes to spicy Caribbean flavors, our collection features a diverse range of pickling techniques and flavor profiles. You’ll find everything from sweet and sour mackerel to smoky paprika-infused mackerel, and even a few surprises along the way.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of pickled fish, highlighting the best recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Spicy Pickled Herring with Mustard Seeds
Experience the bold flavors of Scandinavian cuisine with this simple yet tantalizing recipe. Spicy pickled herring is a classic condiment that pairs perfectly with boiled potatoes, dark rye bread, and even crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pickling vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp mustard seeds
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 12 herring fillets (pickled and drained)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pickling vinegar, water, brown sugar, mustard seeds, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the herring fillets into a clean glass jar or container, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the herring, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes prep time, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Sweet and Sour Pickled Mackerel
Add a tangy twist to your seafood platter with this simple recipe for sweet and sour pickled mackerel. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these pickled fish fillets are bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) brown sugar
– 2 tbsp (30g) pickling spice (such as mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and dill)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the mackerel fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and pickling spice.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Remove the mackerel from the oven and pour the sweet and sour pickling liquid over the fish.
8. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Garlic-Infused Pickled Sardines
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these tangy and savory garlic-infused pickled sardines. Perfect as an appetizer or topping for crackers, sandwiches, or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sardines in oil (6 oz)
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Drain the sardines and set them aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, garlic, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the drained sardines into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the sardines, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Jamaican Escovitch Fish with Peppers
A classic Jamaican dish that combines the flavors of grilled fish, peppers, onions, and spices. This recipe is a staple at many Jamaican cookouts and is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fish fillets (such as snapper or tilapia)
– 2 large Scotch bonnet peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season fish fillets with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of curry powder.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, sauté sliced peppers and onions in vegetable oil until tender.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve grilled fish with sautéed peppers and onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Scandinavian Dill Pickled Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of Scandinavian cuisine with this refreshing recipe for dill pickled salmon. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the versatility of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp pickling spice
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, pickling spice, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Place salmon fillets in a single layer in a shallow dish. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the salmon, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh dill.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Asian-Inspired Pickled Tuna with Ginger
A refreshing twist on traditional pickling, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the warmth of ginger and the crunch of Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained), about 6 oz
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, and water until dissolved.
2. Add the tuna, ginger slices, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with thinly sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Mediterranean Pickled Anchovies with Lemon
Add a burst of salty, tangy flavor to your Mediterranean dishes with this simple recipe for pickled anchovies with lemon. Perfect as an appetizer or topping for salads and sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup anchovy fillets (packed in oil)
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the anchovy fillets under cold water to remove excess oil.
2. In a medium bowl, combine vinegar, lemon juice, water, garlic, and parsley.
3. Add the anchovies to the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Refrigerate the mixture for an additional 2-3 days to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the pickled anchovies chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 24-30 hours (including refrigeration time)
Caribbean Pickled Snapper with Scotch Bonnet
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this classic recipe that combines the sweetness of snapper with the spicy kick of scotch bonnet peppers. This pickling process not only preserves the fish but also infuses it with a tangy, aromatic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb snapper fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine snapper pieces, white vinegar, water, scotch bonnet peppers, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 3 days.
3. Before serving, give the mixture a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: Refrigeration time: 24-72 hours
Classic Swedish Pickled Herring in Vinegar
A traditional Swedish appetizer, this pickling recipe has been passed down through generations, perfect for snacking or serving as a first course. With its tangy and sweet flavors, it’s a great way to add some Scandinavian charm to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) herring fillets
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) whole black peppercorns
– Fresh dill weed, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the herring fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black peppercorns. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add the herring fillets to the marinade, making sure they are completely covered.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 72 hours.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh dill weed if desired.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a cold-pickling recipe)
Pickled Whitefish with Juniper Berries
A classic Scandinavian recipe that pairs the delicate flavor of whitefish with the bold, piney taste of juniper berries. This pickling process creates a tangy and aromatic condiment perfect for topping crackers or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb whitefish (such as cod or haddock), filleted and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp juniper berries, crushed
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces and crushed juniper berries.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the pickling liquid.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the fish mixture and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the fish to pickle further.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Spicy Pickled Trout with Chili Flakes
Add a tangy kick to your trout with this spicy pickling recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, the chili flakes give it a bold and zesty flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole trout (about 1-2 lbs), gutted and cleaned
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
Instructions:
- Rinse the trout under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes until dissolved.
- Add the trout to the marinade, making sure it’s fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Remove the trout from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Cooking time: 0 hours (just marinating!).
Pickled Cod with Bay Leaves and Peppercorns
A classic Nordic-inspired recipe that adds a tangy twist to traditional pickling, this dish is perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and sour flavors. This recipe makes about 2 pounds of pickled cod.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillets, skin removed
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the cod by cutting it into small pieces. Remove any pin bones.
4. Add the sliced onion and cooked cod to the pickling liquid. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain the pickling liquid and discard the solids.
6. Transfer the pickled cod to a clean glass jar, covering it with the pickling liquid. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Sweet Pickled Carp with Onions
Experience the unique flavor of pickled carp, a popular dish in many Eastern European cultures, paired with sweet onions for a delightful twist. This recipe is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb carp fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
– 1/4 tsp coriander seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine carp pieces and onions.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, salt, black pepper, mustard seeds, and coriander seeds. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the carp mixture, making sure all pieces are covered.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering) + 24-48 hours (pickling)
Pickled Sardines in White Wine Vinegar
A tangy and flavorful condiment perfect for topping crackers or using as a sandwich spread, these pickled sardines are surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sardines in oil (drained), rinsed under cold water
– 1 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine white wine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed sardines to the pickling liquid and stir gently to coat.
5. Remove from heat and let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + chilling time
Smoky Pickled Mackerel with Paprika
Elevate your snack game with this smoky, savory, and tangy pickling recipe that combines the rich flavor of mackerel with a hint of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (about 1 lb total)
– 1 cup (250ml) apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add mackerel fillets to the pickling liquid, making sure they are fully covered.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
5. When ready to serve, remove mackerel from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Serve: Enjoy your smoky pickled mackerel on crackers, with a side of toast or on its own as a snack.
Pickled Perch with Fresh Dill and Garlic
This refreshing recipe is perfect for hot summer days when you crave a light, tangy, and flavorful snack. Pickled perch with fresh dill and garlic is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fish with the pungency of garlic and the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound perch fillets (or other white fish), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon pickling spice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh dill weed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine perch pieces, vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pickling spice. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add minced garlic and stir to combine.
3. Pack mixture into clean glass jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
4. Cover with lids and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh dill weed on top of the pickled perch.
Cooking Time: None
Quick Pickled Tilapia with Citrus Zest
This refreshing recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor to the delicate taste of tilapia, making it perfect for a quick and easy dinner. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful fish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the tilapia fillets to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro and grated orange zest over the fish.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional citrus wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prepared ahead of time)
Pickled Catfish with Coriander and Fennel
Pickled Catfish with Coriander and Fennel: A Zesty Twist on a Southern Classic
This recipe adds a delightful Indian flair to the traditional Southern dish, pickled catfish. The combination of tangy vinegar, earthy coriander, and crunchy fennel creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exotic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp coriander powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 bulbs fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, coriander powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the catfish fillets to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Remove the catfish from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve the pickled catfish hot, garnished with sliced fennel.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering pickled fish recipes to elevate your culinary game! From spicy to sweet, these tangy treats will add a burst of flavor to any occasion. Explore international flavors like Scandinavian dill pickled salmon and Caribbean pickled snapper with scotch bonnet peppers. Indulge in classic Swedish pickled herring or try innovative combinations like garlic-infused pickled sardines or smoky pickled mackerel with paprika. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe here to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
