Gather the Necessary Supplies
- 5-6 herring fillets
- 2 cups of wood chips (such as alder or oak)
- Smoker
- Brine solution (2 quarts water, ½ cup salt, ½ cup sugar)
- Seasonings (optional)
Prepare the Herring
Start by cleaning the herring fillets under cold water, removing any scales or impurities. Pat them dry using a paper towel and set them aside.
Create the Brine
In a saucepan, combine the water, salt, and sugar, and heat until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Remove the brine from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Brine the Herring
Place the herring fillets in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the cooled brine over the fish, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Smoker
Fill the smoker’s wood chip box with the desired wood chips. Preheat the smoker to a temperature of 200°F (93°C).
Smoke the Herring
Remove the herring fillets from the brine and rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel before placing them on the smoker’s grate.
If desired, you can sprinkle seasonings like black pepper or garlic powder onto the herring fillets for added flavor.
Place the grate with the herring fillets inside the smoker and close the lid. Let the herring smoke for approximately 2 to 3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Enjoy Your Smoked Herring
Once the herring is fully smoked, remove them from the smoker and let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use.
Smoked herring can be enjoyed on its own, used in salads, sandwiches, or even incorporated into pasta dishes. Let your creativity flow!
Giving homemade smoked herring a try can be a fun and rewarding culinary experience. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the rich and smoky flavors of this delectable fish right in the comfort of your own home. Happy smoking!