Smoked Fish & Quark Dip with Rye Crispbread

Smoked Fish & Quark Dip with Rye Crispbread

This creamy, savory dip combines smoked fish with tangy quark, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon for a simple yet elegant spread. Traditionally enjoyed across Northern Europe, this dish is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch. Paired with crisp rye crackers, it offers a delicious balance of smoky, creamy, and crunchy textures.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 150 g smoked fish trout, mackerel, or whitefish
  • 200 g quark or substitute Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp capers finely chopped
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 6 slices rye crispbread

Instructions

  • Flake the smoked fish into a bowl, removing any bones.
  • Add the quark, dill, chives, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers.
  • Mix everything together until well combined, keeping some texture in the fish.
  • Season with black pepper to taste.
  • Let the dip rest for 10 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve with rye crispbread for dipping or spreading.

Notes

  • Choosing Smoked Fish: Traditionally, smoked trout, mackerel, or whitefish are used, but smoked salmon is a great alternative.
  • Quark Substitutes: If quark isn’t available, Greek yogurt or a mix of sour cream and cream cheese will work.
  • Make Ahead: This dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge for enhanced flavor.
  • Serving Variations: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth or a spoonful of horseradish for heat.
  • Pairings: Rye crispbread is classic, but this dip also works well with cucumber slices, radishes, or boiled potatoes.

Nutrition

Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 0.5g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 529mg | Potassium: 21mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 89IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.2mg
Servings: 2
Calories: 73kcal