Rosolje (Estonian Beet and Herring Salad)

Rosolje is a traditional Estonian salad that features vibrant colors and a tangy, rich flavor. Made with potatoes, beets, and pickled herring, it is a staple at festive gatherings and holiday feasts.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes (1 lb / 0.45 kg), boiled and diced
• 2 medium beets (0.5 lb / 0.23 kg), boiled and diced
• 2 pickled herring fillets (0.3 lb / 0.14 kg), chopped
• 3 hard-boiled eggs (0.3 lb / 0.14 kg), diced
• 1 small apple (0.2 lb / 0.1 kg), peeled and diced
• 1 small onion (0.15 lb / 0.07 kg), finely chopped
• 1 cup (0.25 kg) sour cream
• 1 tablespoon (0.05 lb / 0.02 kg) mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients

   Boil the potatoes and beets separately until tender. Allow them to cool, then peel and dice into small cubes. Hard-boil the eggs, then cool, peel, and dice. Dice the apple and chop the herring fillets. Finely chop the onion.

2. Mix the Salad

   In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, beets, herring, eggs, apple, and onion. Gently mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Prepare the Dressing

   In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and mustard until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Chill

   Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

5. Garnish and Serve

   Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped dill on top. Serve chilled, traditionally with rye bread.

Serving

Rosolje is a visually striking and flavorful salad perfect for festive occasions or family gatherings. Its unique combination of earthy potatoes and beets with tangy pickled herring makes it a memorable dish.