Matjesbrötchen Made Easy: A Classic German Treat Recipe

Matjesbrötchen, a delightful German treat, is the perfect combination of fresh, savory, and tangy flavors. Originating from Northern Germany, this simple yet delicious pickled herring sandwich has become a beloved staple in German cuisine. Traditionally served on a soft bread roll with onions and garnished with fresh herbs, Matjesbrötchen is a quick snack that brings authentic German flavors to your table.

In this blog post, I’ll show you how to create your own Matjesbrötchen at home with an easy, step-by-step recipe. Whether you’re new to German cuisine or looking to recreate a favorite dish from your travels, this guide will help you make the perfect Matjesbrötchen effortlessly. Let’s dive in and bring a taste of Germany to your kitchen!

"Traditional Matjesbrötchen with Pickled Herring and Fresh Vegetables" — Enjoy the authentic taste of Germany with a traditional Matjesbrötchen, featuring pickled herring, fresh vegetables, and a soft German roll.

What Is Matjesbrötchen? A Classic German Snack

Matjesbrötchen is a popular sandwich in Germany, especially in the northern regions. The name comes from Matjes, which refers to pickled herring, and Brötchen, a small German roll. This sandwich combines pickled herring, fresh vegetables, and a crusty roll, making it a delicious and simple dish.

Origins and Cultural Significance

“Matjes” refers to young, tender herring that has been pickled. The fish is soaked in brine and often spiced with dill. In northern Germany and parts of the Netherlands, people have enjoyed this dish for centuries. Matjesbrötchen is especially popular during Matjes season, which runs from late spring to early summer. People celebrate the arrival of fresh herring with markets, festivals, and street food vendors.

Matjesbrötchen is not only a street food favorite but also a part of German food culture. You can find it at beer gardens, fish markets, and local festivals. In coastal regions, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals.

Key Ingredients of Matjesbrötchen

The sandwich features a few simple, high-quality ingredients:

Matjes (Pickled Herring): The main ingredient, Matjes is lightly salted and pickled, giving it a rich, tangy flavor. It has a tender, silky texture.
Brötchen: This small, round roll is soft inside with a crispy crust. It’s the perfect base for the sandwich.
Onions: Thin slices of onion add a sharp, crunchy contrast to the rich herring.
Cucumber: Sliced cucumber provides a refreshing crunch that balances the briny fish.
Dill: A sprinkle of dill enhances the flavor, tying the sandwich together.

Serving Matjesbrötchen

The sandwich is typically served open-faced. The pickled herring rests on the Brötchen, and you top it with onions, cucumber, and dill. Many people enjoy it with a cold drink, like beer, to complement the flavors. You can also pair it with side dishes like potato salad or pickles for a more complete meal.

Matjesbrötchen Beyond Germany

Though most famous in Germany, Matjesbrötchen is also popular in neighboring countries. In the Netherlands, people serve it with rye bread and sometimes add raw onions or grated apple. Denmark also enjoys pickled herring on open-faced sandwiches, with slight regional twists.

Whether you enjoy it at a local market in Hamburg or make it at home, Matjesbrötchen offers a taste of authentic German and Northern European food culture.

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"Matjesbrötchen Sandwich with Pickled Herring and Fresh Vegetables" — Matjesbrötchen: A traditional German sandwich made with pickled herring, fresh vegetables, and a soft roll, perfect for a taste of Germany

Key Ingredients for Matjesbrötchen: What You’ll Need

Matjesbrötchen is all about simplicity, using a few high-quality ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Below, we’ll break down the key ingredients you’ll need to make this classic German sandwich and why each one is important to achieving the perfect Matjesbrötchen.

1. Matjes (Pickled Herring)

The star of the sandwich, Matjes is a young herring that has been lightly salted and pickled in brine. This special preparation process gives the fish its distinct, tangy flavor and tender texture. The herring is not overly salty, making it milder than other types of preserved fish, which is why it works so well in this sandwich.

Matjes herring is traditionally caught in late spring, just before the fish spawn, which gives it a delicate, fatty texture. The pickling process usually involves adding spices like dill, cloves, and sometimes wine or vinegar. The result is a flavorful fish with a rich, briny taste that pairs beautifully with the other fresh ingredients in Matjesbrötchen.

You can find Matjes herring in most well-stocked grocery stores, or you can visit specialized fish markets to find it. While the traditional preparation calls for fresh Matjes herring, you can also use other types of pickled herring if Matjes isn’t available in your area.

2. Brötchen (German Rolls)

Brötchen are small, round rolls that are a staple in German cuisine. The bread should have a light, airy interior with a crunchy crust. It serves as the perfect vessel for holding the herring and toppings, offering both texture and flavor without overpowering the main ingredients.

Traditionally, Brötchen are made with wheat flour, but you can also find variations made with rye or mixed grains in some regions. The bread should be soft enough to easily bite into but firm enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart. If you can’t find authentic Brötchen, you can substitute them with other small, crusty rolls or baguettes, though Brötchen are ideal for this dish.

3. Onions

Thinly sliced onions add a sharp, slightly sweet bite to the sandwich, perfectly balancing the richness of the pickled herring. They provide a wonderful crunch and freshness that complements the soft texture of the fish. In many traditional Matjesbrötchen recipes, raw onions are preferred, as their pungent taste contrasts beautifully with the milder herring.

If you’re sensitive to the raw bite of onions, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the sandwich. This will help mellow out the sharpness while still providing the crunch and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of onions, such as red onions or shallots, to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.

4. Cucumber

Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and lightness to Matjesbrötchen, providing a perfect contrast to the rich, tangy herring. The cool, crisp texture of the cucumber balances the saltiness of the pickled fish, making the sandwich more refreshing and well-rounded. The cucumber is usually sliced thinly, allowing its mild flavor to complement the other ingredients without overpowering them.

While traditional recipes typically use fresh cucumber, you can also experiment with pickled cucumber or even add a touch of dill pickle for a more tangy twist.

5. Dill

Dill is a key herb in many German dishes, and it plays an important role in Matjesbrötchen as well. Its fresh, grassy flavor enhances the pickled herring and ties all the other ingredients together. Dill is often used as a garnish, sprinkled over the sandwich just before serving, giving it a burst of color and flavor.

The herb is often associated with pickled herring, and it pairs perfectly with the tangy brine of the fish. If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use dried dill, but fresh dill will provide a more vibrant, aromatic taste.

Optional Additions

While the above ingredients are the essentials for making Matjesbrötchen, you can customize the sandwich with a few optional additions to enhance the flavor:

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Some variations of Matjesbrötchen include thin slices of hard-boiled egg, which add richness and creaminess to the sandwich. The mild flavor of the eggs complements the tangy herring and helps balance the overall taste.
Mustard: A light smear of mustard on the Brötchen can add an extra kick of flavor. Dijon or whole grain mustard can provide a subtle tanginess that pairs nicely with the pickled herring.
Lettuce or Arugula: For an added layer of freshness, you can layer some greens like lettuce or arugula underneath the herring. These leafy vegetables add a crisp texture and a slight bitterness that contrasts well with the rich fish.

This section breaks down the ingredients in more detail, explaining the importance of each and how they come together to create the perfect Matjesbrötchen. It also offers ideas for variations, so readers can customize their sandwich to suit their tastes.

"Delicious Matjesbrötchen with Pickled Herring and Fresh Vegetables" — Matjesbrötchen: A traditional German sandwich with pickled herring, fresh vegetables, and a soft roll—delicious and full of authentic flavor

How to Prepare Matjesbrötchen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing Matjesbrötchen is a straightforward and quick process, allowing you to enjoy a delicious taste of German street food in no time. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You’ll need only a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort to create a satisfying meal. Below, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to make your own Matjesbrötchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start assembling the sandwich, take a few minutes to prep all the ingredients. This will ensure you have everything ready to go and make the process quick and easy.

Pickled Herring (Matjes): Open the package of Matjes herring. Depending on the packaging, you may need to rinse the herring slightly to remove any excess brine. Then, carefully cut the herring into bite-sized pieces if they aren’t already pre-sliced. Make sure not to discard the flavorful brine, as it can be used to marinate the herring for extra flavor.
Brötchen (German Rolls): Slice the Brötchen rolls horizontally. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can split them by hand. The rolls should be soft on the inside and crisp on the outside, perfect for holding the herring and toppings.
Onions: Thinly slice the onions. You can either use a sharp knife or a mandolin for even slices. Some people prefer soaking the onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes before using them. This step helps mellow out their sharpness and reduces any bitterness.
Cucumber: Wash the cucumber and slice it into thin rounds. You can leave the skin on for extra color and texture, or peel it if you prefer a smoother bite. Thin slices work best as they provide a light crunch without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Dill: If you’re using fresh dill, chop it finely. You can also keep a few whole sprigs for garnish if you prefer a more decorative touch.

Step 2: Assembling the Sandwich

Now comes the fun part: assembling your Matjesbrötchen. Follow these simple steps to build your sandwich:

Layer the Brötchen: Start by placing the bottom half of the Brötchen on your serving plate. Make sure it’s stable and won’t tip over when you add the ingredients.
Add the Pickled Herring: Place several pieces of Matjes herring directly onto the bottom half of the Brötchen. Arrange the herring so that it covers the bread evenly, ensuring each bite will have a bit of fish.
Top with Onions and Cucumber: Next, spread a few thin slices of onion over the herring. Then, layer the cucumber slices on top. The cool cucumber will contrast nicely with the tangy, rich herring, while the onions will add an extra layer of flavor.
Sprinkle Dill: Finish the sandwich with a light sprinkle of fresh dill. The dill adds brightness and an herby aroma that ties the whole sandwich together. It’s the perfect finishing touch for this dish.

Step 3: Garnishing and Optional Extras

Matjesbrötchen is delicious in its basic form, but you can get creative with a few optional extras to customize your sandwich:

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Slice a hard-boiled egg and add it on top of the herring for a creamy, rich addition.
Mustard: Spread a thin layer of mustard on the Brötchen before adding the herring for a tangy, spicy kick. This can add a new dimension of flavor that complements the fish.
Lettuce or Greens: If you like a bit of extra crunch and freshness, layer some leafy greens like arugula or butter lettuce beneath the herring. It also adds a pop of color to the sandwich.

Step 4: Serving and Enjoying

Once your Matjesbrötchen is assembled, place the top half of the Brötchen over the fillings to complete the sandwich. For an open-faced version, you can leave the sandwich as is or serve it with the top of the roll slightly angled for presentation. Serve immediately while the ingredients are fresh, and enjoy!

For the perfect pairing, Matjesbrötchen is often served with a cold drink, such as a crisp German beer or a chilled glass of white wine. You can also accompany it with a side of pickles, potato salad, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Tip for Preparation:

If you’re making multiple Matjesbrötchen, you can set up a “sandwich bar” with all the ingredients prepped and ready to go. This makes it easy for everyone to assemble their own sandwich, customizing it with their favorite toppings.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pickled herring, onions, and cucumber ahead of time. Just keep everything refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. This is particularly helpful if you’re planning to serve Matjesbrötchen at a party or gathering.

This section provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing Matjesbrötchen. It walks the reader through each stage of the preparation, from prepping the ingredients to the final assembly. The optional additions and tips also give readers the flexibility to customize the sandwich to their taste.

Variations of Matjesbrötchen: Making It Your Own

While Matjesbrötchen in its traditional form is simple and delicious, there are many ways you can customize this classic German sandwich to suit your taste or experiment with different textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking to add extra toppings or switch up the bread, there are plenty of variations that allow you to make this dish your own. Below, we’ll explore some creative twists on the traditional Matjesbrötchen that you can try.

1. Bread Variations: Experimenting with Different Rolls

The Brötchen (small German rolls) used in a Matjesbrötchen provides a slightly crisp exterior and soft interior, but you can experiment with other types of bread to create a new texture or flavor profile:

Rye Bread: For a heartier, more robust flavor, try using rye bread instead of traditional Brötchen. Rye bread pairs wonderfully with pickled fish, and its slightly sour taste complements the briny flavor of the herring. You can use either a dense rye loaf or lighter rye rolls, depending on your preference.
Whole Grain Bread: If you prefer a healthier option, whole grain or multi-grain bread can add an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor. The slight chewiness of the bread also provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, tender herring.
Sourdough: For a more tangy flavor, opt for sourdough. The naturally sour notes from the fermentation process can elevate the briny herring and make for an interesting twist on the classic.
Ciabatta: If you’re in the mood for a Mediterranean-inspired variation, consider using ciabatta. Its airy texture and crispy crust work well with the herring and create a light, slightly chewy sandwich experience.

2. Toppings: Customize Your Matjesbrötchen

The beauty of Matjesbrötchen is in its simplicity, but there’s plenty of room for creativity when it comes to the toppings. Here are a few ways to add extra flavor and texture:

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Slices of hard-boiled eggs can add richness and a creamy texture that complements the tangy herring. The mild flavor of eggs balances the salty fish, providing a creamy contrast.
Mustard: A light spread of mustard—particularly Dijon or whole-grain mustard—can enhance the flavor with a slight tang and spice. Mustard adds an extra layer of sharpness that pairs beautifully with the pickled herring, especially if you prefer a little more bite in your sandwich.
Avocado: For a creamy, buttery addition, try adding a few slices of avocado. This will soften the sharpness of the onions and add a smooth contrast to the pickled fish.
Tomato Slices: Fresh slices of tomato add juiciness and sweetness to the sandwich, offering a burst of freshness that contrasts the rich herring. The mild flavor of tomatoes blends well with the other ingredients.
Capers: If you enjoy briny flavors, capers make a great addition to Matjesbrötchen. Their tangy, salty punch works well with pickled herring and gives the sandwich an extra layer of complexity.
Lettuce or Arugula: For an added crunch and some freshness, you can layer some leafy greens such as lettuce, arugula, or baby spinach underneath the fish. Arugula, in particular, will add a slightly peppery flavor that pairs nicely with the other ingredients.

3. Adding More Flavor with Condiments

In addition to mustard, there are a variety of condiments and sauces you can try to give your Matjesbrötchen a different flavor profile:

Horseradish Cream: A dollop of horseradish cream adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick to the sandwich. It complements the pickled herring beautifully and adds a bit of heat that works well with the cool cucumber and fresh dill.
Mayonnaise or Aioli: For a creamy twist, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or aioli on the Brötchen before adding the herring. The richness of the mayonnaise will smooth out the briny fish and create a luxurious mouthfeel. You can also try garlic aioli for a subtle, garlicky flavor.
Lemon or Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a zesty, citrusy note. It’s a simple yet effective way to cut through the richness of the herring and balance the overall taste.
Pesto: For an Italian-inspired variation, a thin smear of basil pesto can elevate the flavor profile of your Matjesbrötchen. The herbaceousness and slight nuttiness of pesto provide a fresh contrast to the salty herring.

4. Matjesbrötchen for Different Occasions: Customize the Serving Style

Matjesbrötchen can be easily adapted to different occasions and dining preferences. Here are a few serving ideas to make the sandwich more suitable for various situations:

Mini Matjesbrötchen for Parties: For a fun appetizer at your next gathering, try making mini Matjesbrötchen using smaller rolls or bite-sized portions of Brötchen. These little sandwiches are perfect for serving at parties and allow guests to enjoy a variety of toppings.
Open-Faced Matjesbrötchen: If you’re looking for a more elegant presentation, serve your Matjesbrötchen open-faced. Simply place the Brötchen on a plate with all the toppings and allow your guests to enjoy the sandwich as a more refined dish. This version is also great for those who prefer a lighter option without the top piece of bread.
Wrap It Up: For a more portable version of Matjesbrötchen, try using a wrap instead of bread. You can use a soft tortilla or lavash flatbread to wrap the Matjes herring and toppings, creating a convenient snack for picnics, lunches, or on-the-go meals.
Matjes Salad: If you’re in the mood for something lighter, consider turning the Matjesbrötchen into a salad. Simply toss the pickled herring, onions, cucumber, and dill with a light vinaigrette dressing. Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh, healthy twist.

5. Seasonal Variations

Depending on the time of year, you can also tailor your Matjesbrötchen to incorporate seasonal ingredients:

Spring/Summer: Use fresh herbs like basil, mint, or parsley to brighten up the sandwich. You can also experiment with seasonal vegetables like radishes or baby greens for extra crunch and freshness.
Autumn: In the fall, you can add roasted pumpkin slices or caramelized onions to your sandwich for a heartier, more comforting flavor. These ingredients bring a touch of warmth and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty herring.

This section highlights several creative variations of Matjesbrötchen, offering ideas for different types of bread, toppings, condiments, and serving styles. Whether you’re looking to add extra flavors, experiment with seasonal ingredients, or make the sandwich more festive, these variations allow you to personalize your Matjesbrötchen to your tastes and occasion.