Tawny, gold colored, tail and headless, these  fish are part of the herring family, “bluefish” that are very good for you. Normally called “sprats,” they are a delicacy from Latvia, generally from the Riga area. In Russian cuisine they are called “kilki.” The Riga Lux Golden Herring are unusual since they are mostly females with their roe. A bonus!

Packed in vegetable oil, the fish are packed in jars so that you can see what they look like and make a delicious appetizer or first course with thinly sliced, toasted french bread, and a dab of good sour cream or crème fraîche.

Vodka, of course, is always welcome as an accompaniment as is ice cold, flavory gin, like either young or aged Jenever or Aquavit, especially the Norwegian Linie.

Mild in flavor, smokey and with their slightly crunchy roe in the background, these Riga Golden Herring are wonderful. Lovers of these preparations should not miss getting acquainted with them. Really yummy!