I’ve lived in the Netherlands for well over a year and, until this past Saturday, I had successfully managed to avoid going anywhere near herring – you know: that salty brined fish the Dutch are famous for swallowing whole. A few months ago there’d been talk of me finally having to try it. It had something to do with a bet, I believe, although frankly I instantly forgot the circumstances as soon as the words were uttered (likely in self-defense), sure that the day would never truly come.
And it wouldn’t have, if Pieter and I hadn’t been out running a few errands. We were scoping out the tuna and the salmon at the fish stall when it suddenly dawned on him that what we had here was a perfect opportunity.
I begged and I pleaded! Not today, I’m not ready! I’m still so full from lunch! If you love me BUT AT ALL you won’t make me do this!
At last he conceded that a whole, plain herring was a rather big leap for a first-timer. Instead, he ordered me a broodje haring met ui. Herring on a bun with onion – raw onion, that is.
Doesn’t that just look scrumptious?
I spent the next few minutes carefully examining every last corner of that sandwich, trying to determine from which angle I should take my first bite in order to maximize the bread to herring ratio. Finally, with a sinking feeling in my heart, I went for it.
Clearly it was delicious.
In case you are wondering, I’m told those long fibres sticking out of the fish are bones. I bet you can’t wait to sink your teeth into one of these bad boys!
The verdict: much like black salty liquorice, if you happen to be Dutch you will love it love it already. I, on the other hand, will be sticking to fish snacks of the deep fried variety!
But if you’re looking to expand your palate, or if you’re simply curious, then definitely give herring a try. If nothing else, it makes for a good laugh and truly delightful breath.
Sophie in Clogs 
Yikes. You are very brave. I certainly couldn’t do it.
I certainly couldn’t do it again!!!
haha! I thought it tasted (surprisingly) good! (but maybe it’s because I’m half dutch ;P)
My best friend is Dutch-Canadian and she said the same thing!!
Honestly if I had been blindfolded and hadn’t been able to see it maybe it would have been better … But that texture … shudder
I don’t really mind herring, and sometimes even crave it (with lots of onions and pickles), but I’m with you on the drop. Can’t stand licorice and doubt I ever will. Blech!
So impressed that you crave it!
I tried for a while to force myself to like drop because it’s EVERYWHERE but euuuughh. I finally had to accept defeat, and now I’m working on stroop :p
Oh my gosh. I’d like to think I’m adventurous with food, but I can barely look at the picture! geez. Maybe I’m just adventurous + a picky eater haha …
It was a feeling of obligation rather than adventure I’m afraid :p If Pieter hadn’t been there to hold me to my promise I doubt I would have done it! There’s adventurous and then there’s crazy (cough Dutch population)
hahah too good! I’ll have to read more about your Dutch adventures. I don’t even know where to begin with picturing that little part of the world
Just checking out your blog now and I was going to say the same thing about Fairbanks! So ‘close’ to home (at least compared to where I am now) and yet such a mystery. Would definitely love to see Alaska one day. Thank you for the sweet comments!
The Global Recipe Project at crowdedearthkitchen.com is seeking authentic Dutch recipes. I hope you will consider participating! 🙂
Sounds like a fun project! I’m not sure I have any authentic Dutch recipes but I’ll see if anything comes to mind 🙂
Thanks!