Gubbröra with browned butter and horseradish potatoes

A classic Scandinavian delight, this gubbröra blends tender cod, creamy eggs, and salty anchovies, paired with horseradish-spiced potatoes and nutty browned butter for a rich, flavourful meal.

By Niklas Ekstedt
From Saturday Kitchen

This nutritious dish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids from cod and anchovies and balanced by creamy elements, earns a Nutri-score of B. Ideal for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

For the gubbröra

• 200g/7oz cod fillet (about 2 pieces)
• 50g/1¾oz unsalted butter, to grease
• 50g/1¾oz grated aged cheese, such as Prästost or Parmesan
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, coarsely chopped
• 150g/5½oz small boiled potatoes, diced
• 120g/4¼oz Swedish anchovies (sprats), chopped, plus 1 tbsp brine
• 100ml/3½fl oz crème fraîche
• 50ml/2fl oz mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the horseradish potatoes

• 500g/1lb 2oz firm potatoes, such as almond potatoes
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2–3 tbsp grated fresh horseradish
• Splash crème fraîche or cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the browned butter

• 100g/3½oz unsalted butter

Method

1. Cook the cod: Heat butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook cod fillets for 4–5 minutes each side until just cooked.
2. Prepare gubbröra: In a bowl, mix chopped eggs, boiled potatoes, anchovies, crème fraîche, mayonnaise, dill, and chives. Season with salt, pepper, and anchovy brine to taste.
3. Make horseradish potatoes: Boil potatoes for 15–20 minutes until tender. While hot, mash them leaving skins on if possible. Stir in butter, horseradish, seasoning, and a splash of crème fraîche or cream.
4. Prepare browned butter: Melt butter in a saucepan until foaming stops and solids turn golden. Remove from heat to prevent burning.
5. Serve: Plate cod with gubbröra alongside horseradish potatoes and serve browned butter separately as a drizzle or dip.

Tips & Serving Suggestions

• Use fresh or frozen cod fillets for convenience.
• Adjust horseradish to your preferred spice level.
• Pair with crisp white wine or light lager for freshness.

What can you serve with this

1. Pickled cucumber salad: Adds a refreshing crunch and acidity.
2. Rye bread: Traditional accompaniment offering hearty texture.
3. Steamed asparagus: Light vegetable side that complements richness.

FAQs for Gubbröra with Browned Butter and Horseradish Potatoes

• What is gubbröra? A traditional Swedish mix of fish, eggs, and condiments often served as a starter or light meal.
• Can I use other fish? Yes, smoked herring or mackerel are good alternatives.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
• How long do the horseradish potatoes keep? Best served fresh but keep refrigerated up to 2 days.
• Can the browned butter be made in advance? Yes, store it chilled and gently reheat before serving.

Nutri-score Health Check