Tender and Juicy Steamed Herring Fillet
Nutritional value per serving
Calories180kcal
Carbs1gram
Fat10gram
Protein20gram
Ingredients
- Herring fillets (fresh or thawed) - choose firm, shiny fillets with a mild ocean smell4 pieces
- Lemon - to add freshness and acidity1 piece
- Fresh dill or parsley - for garnish and flavor2 tbsp
- Salt - to taste1/2 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground if possible) - to taste1/4 tsp
- Water (for steaming)500 ml
This recipe guides you through steaming herring fillets to achieve a tender, moist, and flavorful dish perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Steaming locks in nutrients and keeps the fish delicate without added fat. The ingredients are affordable and common, with a total estimated cost of about $6 (5.5€ / £4.8 / ₹450). Each serving contains approximately 180 kcal with balanced protein and healthy fats, suitable for a light, nutritious diet. The recipe is easy to prepare and takes about 25 minutes in total, ideal for cooks of all skill levels who want a healthy meal without hassle.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the fish
1Rinse the herring fillets gently under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels. Patting dry helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking.
Season the fillets
2Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the fillets. Squeeze half the lemon over the fillets to add fresh flavor.
Prepare steaming setup
3Pour 500 ml of water into a pot or pan suitable for steaming. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat. Use a steamer basket or a heat-proof colander that fits inside the pot without touching the water.
Steam the fillets
4Place the seasoned herring fillets in the steamer basket in a single layer. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam. Steam for 8-10 minutes until the fillets are opaque, firm but tender, and flake easily with a fork. The safe internal temperature for cooked fish is 63°C (145°F); use a food thermometer to check if you want assurance.
Add finishing touches
5Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a serving dish. Sprinkle freshly chopped dill or parsley over the top, and garnish with the remaining lemon slices to brighten the dish.
Cooking Tips
-Choose fresh herring with a mild, clean ocean smell. Avoid fillets that smell overly fishy or look dull.
-Make sure the steaming water doesn't touch the fish to prevent overcooking and sogginess.
-Use a food thermometer to verify the internal temperature of the fish reaches at least 63°C (145°F) for safety.
-To avoid cross-contamination, use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw fish and other ingredients, and wash hands well after handling raw fish.
-If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried dill or parsley can work but add them after cooking to preserve flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Pot or pan with a lid for steaming
- Steamer basket or heat-proof colander
- Tongs or spatula
- Food thermometer (optional but recommended)
- Knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Herring fillets (4 pieces) — Choose firm, shiny fillets without unpleasant odor. Approximate cost: $4
- [ ] Lemon (1 piece) — Choose firm lemons with smooth skin. Approximate cost: $0.50
- [ ] Fresh dill or parsley (small bunch) — Select bright green leaves, no yellowing. Approximate cost: $1
- [ ] Salt — Usually available at home
- [ ] Black pepper (ground or whole) — Usually available at home
Total approximate cost: $5.50
FAQ
Can I steam frozen herring fillets directly?
It's best to thaw frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight before steaming to ensure even cooking and avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when the herring is fully cooked?
Cooked herring fillets will be opaque, firm but tender, and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F) for safety.
Can I use another type of fish for this steaming method?
Yes, this method works well for other oily fish like mackerel or salmon fillets.
What if I don’t have a steamer basket?
You can use a heat-proof colander or a metal strainer that fits inside the pot without touching the water, or improvise with a metal rack.