Looking for a quick way to make gefilte fish? This Instant Pot recipe is a convenient option, keeping the traditional flavors loved in Jewish households.
It’s an ideal appetizer for Passover or Rosh Hashanah, giving you a delicious start to your holiday meal without the usual prep time.
On this recipe we are using the frozen gefilte fish and don't make it from scratch.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Using a frozen gefilte fish log saves time and still captures that homemade taste. The Instant Pot really brings out the flavors, allowing the fish to soak up the subtle sweetness of carrots and the mild savoriness of onion. You’ll end up with tender, perfectly cooked gefilte fish slices without spending hours over the stove.
Another reason this recipe shines is how easy it is to pull off. You just need a few basic ingredients and minimal prep work, yet you get a comforting appetizer that feels like it’s been cooking all day. Plus, you can make it ahead, chill it, and serve it cold if that’s how your family likes it best.
Ingredients
Frozen Gefilte Fish log: This is the main ingredient, usually found in the freezer section, packed and ready to cook. Just keep it frozen until ready to use. Take out the plastic wrap but to keep the parchment paper.
Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color. Substitute with parsnips if desired for a slightly different flavor.
Onion: Balances out the flavors with a bit of savory depth. Yellow onion works best.
How To Serve
Gefilte fish is usually served as a chilled appetizer before the main meal. It can be enjoyed with horseradish on the side to add some heat or with matzo for a traditional touch.
To switch things up, serve it:
- With a drizzle of lemon juice and fresh dill for a zesty finish.
- Alongside sliced beets for a colorful and earthy side.
- With a scoop of tangy horseradish sauce for a spicy kick.
And of course, serve before or after this Instant Pot Matzo Ball Soup and impress your guests 🙂
Tips
- Use a frozen log directly; no need to thaw.
- For a stronger flavor, swap water with vegetable broth.
- Slice carrots thinly to get a more tender texture.
- If you like more color, add some celery or bell pepper.
- Serve with a small garnish, like fresh dill or parsley, for a pop of freshness.
Kosher Fish Recipes
Instant Pot Gefilte Fish
Ingredients
- 1 gefilte fish log frozen
- 3 whole carrots
- 1 onion peeled & cut into quarters
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- Place the gefilte fish with the parchment paper inside the Instant Pot.
- Place the whole carrots and the onion quarters inside the Instant Pot.
- Add water.
- Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- When cooking time is complete, do a quick pressure release and open the lid.
- Cut the gefilte fish log into slices.
- Cut the carrots into slices and place each slice on the gefilte fish slice (as you can see in the picture).
- Serve and enjoy 🙂
Nutrition
Notes
- Take out the plastic wrap but to keep the parchment paper.
- Use a frozen log directly - no need to thaw or cut before cooking.
- For a stronger flavor, swap water with vegetable broth.
- If you like more color, add some celery or bell pepper.
- Serve with a small garnish, like fresh dill or parsley, for a pop of freshness.
Delicious and easy. Try adding a bit of Better Than Bouillon and extra water for yummy fish broth.
I also season with salt, pepper, garlic and sugar.
Sounds great!