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GRANT Charlie Harper

Authentic Matjesbrötchen Recipe – A Classic German Fish Sandwich

Matjesbrötchen is a classic German fish sandwich made with mildly pickled Matjes herring, served in a crispy Brötchen (bread roll) with fresh onions, pickles, and a creamy sauce. This traditional Northern German dish is a favorite at harbors, fish markets, and street food stalls. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, Matjesbrötchen is a must-try for seafood lovers!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: German, Northern European
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwich:
  • 2 fresh Matjes herring fillets mildly pickled, not heavily salted
  • 2 crusty Brötchen rolls or Kaiser rolls, ciabatta, or pretzel rolls
  • ½ small red onion thinly sliced
  • 2 small pickles cornichons, sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter or margarine
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise or remoulade sauce
  • 1 tsp horseradish cream or mustard
  • Fresh dill or chives for garnish
  • Lettuce or tomato slices

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Matjes and Bread
  2. 1️⃣ Drain the Matjes fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel.2️⃣ If desired, rinse them briefly under cold water or soak in milk for 30 minutes to reduce saltiness.3️⃣ Slice the Brötchen rolls in half and lightly toast them for extra crispiness.
  3. Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
  4. 1️⃣ Spread butter, mayonnaise, or remoulade on the inside of the rolls.2️⃣ Place the Matjes fillets inside the bread roll.3️⃣ Add thinly sliced onions and pickles on top.4️⃣ Sprinkle with fresh dill or chives for extra flavor.5️⃣ Close the sandwich and press lightly to hold everything in place.
  5. Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
  6. Serve immediately with a side of German potato salad, beet salad, or fries.
  7. Enjoy with a cold beer or a crisp white wine for the best pairing.

Notes

  • Matjes herring is different from regular pickled herring—it is milder and less salty.
  • To prevent sogginess, spread butter or sauce on the bread before adding Matjes.
  • For a spicier version, mix mayo with chili flakes or add pickled jalapeños.
  • Matjesbrötchen is best eaten fresh, but you can store Matjes fillets in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Not suitable for freezing—the texture of the fish and bread will change.