Hollandse Nieuwe - Dutch Recipe - New Herring – Kosher

Experience the classic Dutch favorite with kosher-certified herring prepared the traditional way—simple, fresh, and full of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you've ever visited the Netherlands, you've likely seen people enjoying Hollandse Nieuwe by holding the fish by the tail before taking a bite. While this traditional presentation is iconic, it's equally delicious served on rye bread, crackers, or alongside crisp onions and pickles.

This kosher version uses kosher-certified pickled herring, making it easy to recreate this beloved Dutch delicacy at home while following kosher dietary laws. Since the fish is already cured, this is an incredibly quick recipe that's perfect for appetizers, brunches, light lunches, or holiday gatherings.

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: Dutch

Course: Appetizer, Lunch, Light Meal

Servings: 4

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: None

Total Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Cooking Vessels & Equipment

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Small serving platter
Mixing bowl (optional)
Paper towels
Serving forks
Measuring spoons

Ingredients

8 kosher-certified pickled herring fillets (about 1½ pounds)
1 medium sweet onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Traditional Accompaniments

Rye bread
Rye crackers
Dill pickles
Cornichons
Sliced radishes
Thinly sliced cucumber
Baby potatoes, boiled and cooled
Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Herring

Remove the herring from its packaging.

Pat lightly with paper towels if desired to remove excess brine while still keeping the fish moist.

Arrange the fillets neatly on a serving platter.

Step 2: Prepare the Garnishes

Finely dice the onion.

Chop the parsley, dill, and chives.

Mix the herbs together in a small bowl.

Step 3: Assemble

Sprinkle the diced onions evenly over the herring.

Scatter the fresh herbs over the top.

Drizzle lightly with lemon juice.

If desired, add a small drizzle of olive oil for richness.

Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately with:

Rye bread
Pickles
Lemon wedges
Boiled baby potatoes
Fresh vegetables

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 290
Protein: 23g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High
Vitamin D: Excellent source
Vitamin B12: Excellent source

Nutritional values are estimates.

Dietary Adaptations

Gluten-Free

Serve without bread or use gluten-free crackers.

Low-Carb

Pair with cucumber slices instead of bread.

Keto-Friendly

Excellent as served with onions and herbs.

Dairy-Free

Naturally dairy-free.

Nut-Free

Naturally nut-free.

Mediterranean Diet

A perfect fit thanks to healthy fats and fish.

Kosher Considerations

Purchase only kosher-certified pickled herring from a reliable kosher supplier.
Check certification on all condiments and bread.
Use separate utensils if serving alongside dairy or meat meals.
Since this is fish, serve according to your family's custom regarding fish and meat separation.

Shabbat Adaptations

Because no cooking is required, this recipe is ideal for Shabbat.

Prepare everything before Shabbat:

Dice the onions.
Chop the herbs.
Arrange the platter.
Refrigerate until serving time.
Add lemon juice just before the meal if preferred.

Tips & Troubleshooting

Herring tastes too salty

Briefly rinse under cold water and pat dry before serving.

Onion tastes too sharp

Soak diced onions in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain well.

Fish seems dry

Add a tiny drizzle of olive oil or reserved pickling liquid.

Flavor seems flat

A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens everything.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying non-kosher herring.
Using old herbs.
Serving overly cold straight from the refrigerator without letting it sit 5–10 minutes.
Oversalting—the fish is already seasoned.
Using strong onions that overpower the delicate fish.

Variations

Traditional Dutch

Serve simply with diced onions.

Herb Lover's Version

Double the fresh dill and parsley.

Mustard Style

Serve with Dijon mustard.

Apple Twist

Add finely diced tart apple for sweetness.

Pickled Vegetable Version

Serve alongside pickled beets and cucumbers.

Scandinavian Inspired

Add capers and extra dill.

Serving Suggestions

Dutch-style appetizer platter
Brunch buffet
Holiday appetizer
Light summer lunch
Picnic meal
Charcuterie-style fish board

What to Serve With This Recipe

Buttered rye bread
Rye crispbread
Boiled baby potatoes
Pickled cucumbers
Cornichons
Beet salad
Cucumber salad
Fresh tomatoes
Hard-boiled eggs
Mixed green salad

Expert Tips for Success

Buy the freshest kosher-certified herring available.
Finely dice onions for balanced flavor.
Fresh dill makes a noticeable difference.
Let the fish sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Use freshly squeezed lemon rather than bottled juice.
Chill serving plates beforehand for an authentic presentation.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Keep covered to prevent the fish from absorbing refrigerator odors.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is not recommended after opening.

Previously frozen commercial herring may lose texture if frozen again.

Reheating Instructions

No reheating is necessary.

Serve chilled or slightly cool.

Never microwave pickled herring.

Meal Prep Tips

Dice onions up to 2 days ahead.
Chop herbs the day before.
Prepare serving platter several hours ahead.
Store garnishes separately until serving.
Slice lemons just before serving for maximum freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hollandse Nieuwe actually raw?

Traditionally, Hollandse Nieuwe is cured rather than cooked. Commercial versions are typically frozen first for food safety before curing. For this kosher recipe, use kosher-certified cured herring.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes. It can be assembled several hours in advance and refrigerated until serving.

What kind of onion is best?

Sweet onions or mild white onions are traditional because they complement the delicate flavor of the herring.

Can I substitute another fish?

The classic recipe is made with herring. While other cured fish can be served similarly, the flavor and texture will be different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if served without bread or with gluten-free crackers.

Why is Hollandse Nieuwe considered a delicacy?

Its rich, buttery texture, mild flavor, and high omega-3 content make it one of the Netherlands' most celebrated traditional seafood dishes.

Can children eat it?

If using commercially prepared, kosher-certified herring that has been properly processed and handled, many families enjoy it together. As with any seafood, consider individual dietary needs and preferences.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely. Dill, parsley, capers, pickles, sliced radishes, and even diced apples are all delicious additions while still respecting the spirit of the classic Dutch dish.