Instructions
Rinse the herring under cold running water. Place the herring in a bowl and cover completely with cold water. Let the herring soak for at least 1 hour. If the herring is very salty, drain the water, add fresh cold water, and soak again for another hour. After soaking, drain the herring very well. Pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the herring fillets into bite-sized pieces. Find a clean jar or container large enough to hold all the herring pieces. Place the herring pieces into the jar. Add the allspice, peppercorns, and bay leaf to the jar with the herring. Pour the olive oil over the herring and spices. Make sure all herring pieces are fully covered by the oil. Seal the jar tightly with a lid. Place the sealed jar in the refrigerator. Allow the herring to marinate in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days before you eat it. This waiting period allows the flavors to combine properly. Once prepared, the herring will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To serve, take the herring out of the jar. You can serve it with finely chopped fresh onion or thinly sliced onion rings. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, fresh parsley, or fresh dill.