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🇷🇺 Russia · Food

Fish Under Marinade

40 min
A relaxed effort
🔥 320 kcal
Nicely balanced
🍽 4 servings
Great for the family

By eatmundo · September 8, 2026

Fish Under Marinade🇷🇺 RUElena Leya · Unsplash

A classic cold appetizer consisting of pan-fried white fish fillets topped with a sweet and tangy vegetable sauce. It represents the quintessential Soviet-era deli and holiday favorite.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Slice 600g of white fish into thick steaks or fillets, coat them lightly in flour, and season with salt.

  • 2

    Heat 20ml vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the fish for 4 minutes per side until golden brown; remove and set aside.

  • 3

    Finely dice 2 onions and grate 2 carrots, then heat the remaining 20ml oil in a medium saucepan.

  • 4

    Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for 8 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized.

  • 5

    Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp vinegar, and 1 tsp sugar; dilute with 50ml water, then simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.

  • 6

    Place the cooled fish in a deep dish and spread the warm vegetable marinade evenly over the top.

  • 7

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to let the marinade penetrate the fish.

  • 8

    Serve cold directly from the refrigerator, ensuring every piece of fish is coated in the flavorful vegetable topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fish Under Marinade?+

Fish Under Marinade is a cold Russian appetizer consisting of fried white fish pieces topped with a sautéed mixture of carrots, onions, and tomato paste. It is preserved in a vinegar-based sauce and is typically served as an hors d'oeuvre at holidays and festive gatherings.

What is Ryba Pod Marinadom?+

Ryba Pod Marinadom is a cold Russian dish consisting of pan-fried white fish served under a thick, tangy, and sweet sauce made of stewed carrots, onions, and tomato paste. It is a nostalgic appetizer typically prepared for festive gatherings.

What type of fish works best?+

Firm-fleshed white fish like pollock, cod, or hake are preferred because they hold their shape well after frying and cooling.

Can I eat this immediately?+

No, the dish is specifically designed to be marinated; letting it rest for several hours or overnight is crucial for the textures and flavors to develop.

Why is it served cold?+

It is an appetizer meant to be enjoyed as a refreshing, chilled dish that pairs perfectly with pickles and rye bread.

Is the flour coating necessary?+

Yes, a light dusting of flour helps create a small crust on the fish, which prevents it from falling apart while it is being marinated in the acidic sauce.

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