Vegetarian Forshmak

Hello, dear readers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful twist on a classic dish: Vegetarian Forshmak. Traditionally, forshmak is a cherished appetizer in Jewish cuisine, made with finely chopped herring. However, for those seeking a plant-based alternative or simply looking to explore new flavours, this vegetable-based version offers a refreshing and delicious experience.

Ingredients:

  • 1 small head of young cabbage
  • 2 medium potatoes
  • 1 onion
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 100g sour cream
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 slices white bread
  • 50ml milk
  • 50g grated cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Finely shred the cabbage.
    • Peel and grate the potatoes.
    • Finely chop the onion.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
    • Incorporate the shredded cabbage and grated potatoes into the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
  3. Prepare the Bread:
    • Soak the slices of white bread in milk until softened.
    • Gently squeeze out any excess liquid from the bread.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, mix the sautéed vegetables, soaked bread, sour cream, and grated cheese.
    • Add the eggs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  5. Bake the Forshmak:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Grease a baking dish with a bit of vegetable oil or butter.
    • Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
    • Sprinkle additional grated cheese on top for a golden crust.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
  6. Serve:
    • Allow the vegetarian forshmak to cool slightly before serving.
    • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, if desired.
    • This dish pairs wonderfully with rye bread or crispy toast.

This vegetarian forshmak offers a delightful combination of textures and flavours, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a new dish to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

Happy cooking!