Shapska Salad, also known as Herring Under a Fur Coat (Slivkový zelný salát in Czech), is a traditional Czech and Eastern European dish. This unique salad gets its name from its layered appearance, resembling a fur coat, with alternating layers of pickled herring, beets, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s typically served cold and is often enjoyed as a main course or side dish, especially during the winter months.
Here’s a simple recipe to make Shapska Salad:
Ingredients:
1. 2 medium beets
2. 4 large potatoes
3. 1 small onion
4. 2-3 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
5. 1 can of pickled herring fillets (about 180g), drained and rinsed
6. Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
7. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
8. 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
9. Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Peel and grate the beets and potatoes separately. Soak each in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove any excess pink color from the beets and prevent discoloration. After soaking, squeeze out the excess water.
- Hard-boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, then turn off the heat. Let them sit for about 10 minutes before peeling and slicing them.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. If using fresh dill, add it now.
Assemble the salad: Start with a layer of potatoes at the bottom of your serving dish, followed by a layer of grated beets. Arrange the herring fillets on top of the beets, then pour some of the dressing over this layer to moisten it. Repeat these steps until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of dressed potatoes.
Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This dish can be made ahead of time; in fact, it’s said to improve with age as the flavors develop over a few days in the fridge. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Shapska Salad that’s sure to bring warmth on a cold day!
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Image model: CopaxCuteXL
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