Delicious Pickled Fish Recipe - A Classic American Dish

Pickled Fish — a american recipe (condiments and sauces) with 13 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

50

Total Time (min)

6

servings

318

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Delicious Pickled Fish Recipe - A Classic American Dish

Ingredients

Servings:
6
  • 2 pounds white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 cloves garlic (smashed)
  • 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1 cup carrots (thinly sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

6 steps

  1. Prepare the Fish

    Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

    Ensure the fish is fresh for the best flavor.
  2. Make the Brine

    In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.

    Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
  3. Add Aromatics

    Add the smashed garlic, sliced onion, and carrots to the brine. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

    Letting the brine cool will help preserve the flavors.
  4. Layer the Ingredients

    In a clean jar, layer the fish fillets, fresh dill, and any remaining onions or carrots.

    Tightly pack the fish for even pickling.
  5. Pour the Brine

    Pour the warm brine over the layered fish until fully submerged. Seal the jar.

    Ensure no air bubbles are trapped.
  6. Refrigerate

    Refrigerate the jar for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

    The longer you wait, the better the flavor.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Pescatarian, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Peanut-Free, Tree-Nut-Free, Soy-Free. Diet: Low-Fat

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 1 day in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 1 month — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Gently reheat in a pan over low heat. Avoid microwaving seafood as it can become rubbery.

What to Serve With

Complete your american meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Coleslaw
🍽️French fries or baked potatoes
🍽️Corn on the cob

About This Dish

Delicious Pickled Fish Recipe - A Classic American Dish is a beloved dish from American cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 50 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

American cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and traditions from around the world, shaped by the diverse cultures that make up the nation. From hearty comfort food to innovative modern dishes.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 13 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pickled fish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

6 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories250kcal
Total Fat10gg
Sodium800mgmg
Total Carbohydrates6gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars3gg
Protein30gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineAmerican