If you’ve ever strolled through the streets of Hamburg or visited a German fish market, you’ve probably seen a Matjesbrötchen. This iconic sandwich, made with soft, pickled herring nestled inside a crusty roll, is a staple of Northern German cuisine. It’s salty, tangy, buttery, and incredibly delicious.
Want to make it at home? You’re in the right place. This Matjesbrötchen recipe guide covers everything you need to know to create an authentic Matjesbrötchen—from picking the best herring to getting that perfect bite of crunch and softness. Let’s dive in.
What Is Matjesbrötchen?
Matjesbrötchen is a German seafood masterpiece. Imagine a soft but crusty roll packed with buttery, briny, melt-in-your-mouth herring, some tangy pickles, sharp onions, and a little bit of creamy sauce to bring it all together.
If you’re into bold flavors and crave that fresh-off-the-boat seafood experience, this is your jam.
It’s one of those street foods you grab at a fish market in Hamburg or along the North Sea coast. Simple. No frills. Just an insanely good bite of ocean goodness wrapped up in a perfect bun.
And today, you’re gonna learn how to make this beauty right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Matjesbrötchen Recipe
- Fast & Easy — No cooking required, just assemble and enjoy.
- Authentic German Street Food — Brings the flavors of the North Sea to your kitchen.
- Balanced & Refreshing — The salty fish, crunchy onions, and soft bread make a perfect bite.
- Perfect Anytime — Great for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack.
What Bread Should You Use?
The bread makes a big difference! Traditional Matjesbrötchen is served on:
- Brötchen (German bread rolls) — Crisp on the outside, soft inside.
- Kaiser Rolls — A great alternative if you can’t find Brötchen.
- Baguette Slices — Adds an artisanal touch.
- Rye Bread — For a deeper, earthy flavor.
Pro Tip: Avoid soft sandwich bread—it’ll turn mushy from the herring juices.
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Matjesbrötchen Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 fillets matjes herring (about 100g each) – Go for high-quality, fresh matjes in brine, not overly salted versions
- 2 fresh crusty bread rolls – Kaiser rolls, sourdough rolls, or German brötchen work best
- 1 small red onion – Thinly sliced for that sharp, crisp bite
- 2 small dill pickles – Sliced into thin rounds for a perfect tangy crunch
- 1 tbsp butter – Optional, but it adds richness to the sandwich
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp sour cream or Crème fraîche – Optional, but it smooths out the flavors
- 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
- Freshly ground black pepper – To taste
Instructions
Prepping the Herring
First, take your matjes fillets out of the brine. Pat them dry with a paper towel to get rid of excess liquid. If they’re whole, you can leave them as-is or slice them into smaller strips for easier eating.
Prepping the Rolls
Slice your bread rolls in half. If you want extra flavor, spread a thin layer of butter on both sides. Feeling adventurous? Toast them lightly in a pan for a crispy touch.
Layering the Flavors
Time to stack it up:
- Lay down your matjes fillets first. They should take up most of the bun, so adjust if needed.
- Scatter the red onions over the fish. You want a nice balance—enough to add sharpness but not overpowering.
- Add the sliced pickles for that perfect crunch.
- If you’re using the sour cream-mustard mix, spread it lightly on the top bun.
- Sprinkle some fresh dill and black pepper over everything.
- Place the top bun on, press down slightly, and boom—you’ve got yourself an authentic Matjesbrötchen.
Enjoy your Matjesbrötchen
Pair It Up with a fresh lemonade or sparkling water with a slice of lemon will keep things light and refreshing.
Notes
Freshness is key here. Get the best quality matjes herring you can find.
Perfect Side Dishes for Matjesbrötchen
Pair your Matjesbrötchen with these traditional and flavorful sides:
- German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat): A vinegar-based salad that complements the fish’s richness
- Sauerkraut: Adds a fermented tang that enhances the sandwich
- Pickled Red Cabbage: Provides crunch and a pop of color
- Cold Pilsner Beer or Dry White Wine: The crispness balances the fish’s oily texture
How to Store Leftovers
So, you made a little too much? No worries. Here’s how to keep things fresh
- Matjes herring: If it’s still in its brine, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Bread rolls: Keep them in a paper bag at room temp for a day or two. You can also freeze them and reheat when needed
- Assembled sandwiches: These don’t keep well for long because the bread gets soggy. If you need to store one, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and eat within a few hours
Homemade Pickling Guide for Matjes Herring
If you want to make your own pickled herring at home:
- Start with fresh herring and fillet it
- Make a brine with vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices like juniper berries and mustard seeds
- Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 48 hours before using
Expert Tips for the Best Matjesbrötchen
- Always use fresh, high-quality Matjes herring for the most authentic taste
- Lightly toast the bread roll before assembling to add a slight crunch
- Balance flavors with a bit of acidity: a squeeze of lemon juice or a touch of pickled onions works wonders
- Let the assembled sandwich rest for a few minutes before eating so the flavors meld together
- If you want an extra kick, add a thin layer of Dijon mustard or a mild horseradish spread
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Matjesbrötchen
- Using the wrong type of bread: Stick to crusty rolls like Brötchen or Ciabatta; avoid soft hamburger buns
- Overloading with toppings: Keep it simple to let the fish shine
- Choosing overly salty herring: If needed, rinse it lightly to remove excess salt
- Not balancing flavors: A touch of sweetness (from pickles) or acidity (from onions) makes a difference
- Skipping fresh herbs: Dill, chives, or parsley enhance the flavors beautifully
Matjesbrötchen Recipe Variations to Try
Here are some fun twists to switch things up.
Spicy Kick Version
- Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat
- A little bit of horseradish mixed into your dressing gives it a fiery touch
Creamy Upgrade
- Instead of butter, spread a layer of cream cheese or herbed yogurt for a smooth contrast to the tangy herring
- A dollop of remoulade sauce with chopped capers and fresh parsley can bring another layer of deliciousness
Vegetable Boost
- Add crisp lettuce, thin cucumber slices, or radishes for extra crunch
- A few slices of ripe tomato make it even juicier
Sweet and Savory
- Try adding thinly sliced apple or pear for a subtle sweetness that complements the salty fish
- Caramelized onions instead of raw onions for a richer, deeper flavor
When to Eat Matjesbrötchen?
- Perfect for lunch on a warm summer day, especially by the water. There’s something about that ocean breeze that makes this sandwich taste even better
- Quick dinner option when you don’t feel like cooking but still want something satisfying
- A snack during Oktoberfest celebrations, street fairs, or just because you feel like treating yourself
Regional Variations of Matjesbrötchen
Matjesbrötchen is a Northern German classic, but different cities have their own spin on it:
- Hamburg Style: Often served with a tangy remoulade sauce and topped with fresh dill
- Bremen Twist: Features a more minimalist approach with just onions and pickles
- Nordic Influence: In Denmark, a similar sandwich is called “smørrebrød,” often with rye bread instead of a bun
- Dutch Version: The Netherlands has “broodje haring,” which uses a softer roll and often includes chopped onions
Where to Buy the Best Matjes Herring
Finding quality Matjes herring is key to making the perfect sandwich. Here are some great sources:
- German Specialty Stores: Look for fresh or vacuum-sealed Matjes in the refrigerated section
- Local Fish Markets: If you live near the coast, ask for “Matjes” or young pickled herring
- Online Retailers: Amazon and European specialty shops often sell high-quality Matjes fillets
- Supermarkets: Some well-stocked stores have Matjes in their international foods section
Matjesbrötchen vs. Other Herring Sandwiches
Matjesbrötchen is unique, but it has international cousins:
- Smørrebrød (Denmark): Open-faced rye bread sandwich with pickled fish and creamy toppings
- Broodje Haring (Netherlands): Soft bun with raw herring, onions, and pickles
- Selyodka na Batone (Russia): Herring on buttered bread, often served as an appetizer
Matjesbrötchen Recipe: Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Matjes herring is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain and heart health. A single sandwich contains:
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Healthy Fats: Rich in Omega-3s, good for reducing inflammation
- Vitamins & Minerals: High in Vitamin D, B12, and iron
Matjesbrötchen FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish?
Traditional Matjes herring is best, but pickled mackerel or sardines can work in a pinch
Is Matjes herring raw or cooked?
It’s lightly cured and pickled, so it’s safe to eat without cooking
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble right before serving
Why Matjesbrötchen Deserves a Spot on Your Menu
Let’s be real, once you’ve had a bite of this legendary sandwich, you’ll be wondering why it’s not more famous outside of Germany. It’s got everything: bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a history that makes every bite feel special. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and totally customizable
Next time you’re craving something different, skip the usual sandwich and go for Matjesbrötchen recipe instead. Whether you keep it traditional or put your own spin on it, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for a seriously good meal.