These crispy potato latke bites topped with smoky salmon are simply delicious! They make for an amazing snack or appetizer that everyone will love.
These bites are like little party starters on a plate! I enjoy serving them at gatherings to impress my friends. You’ll be the life of the party with these tasty treats! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for their starchiness, making for crunchy latkes. If you can’t find russets, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which will give a creamy texture.
Onion: The onion adds flavor to the latkes. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with green onions or shallots.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the mixture. If you’re going gluten-free, almond or rice flour can work well as a substitute.
Smoked Salmon: This gives a lovely salty flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using cooked shrimp or even a vegetable topping like avocado for a vegetarian option.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a bright taste. If you don’t have it, you can use parsley or chives as a substitute, but the flavor will change a bit.
How Do You Make Crispy Latkes?
Getting that perfect crispy texture for latkes is all about moisture control. When you grate your potatoes and onion, they hold a lot of water. Here’s how to make them crispy:
- After grating the potatoes and onion, place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist the towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Ensure your oil is hot before adding the potato mixture. A good way to test this is by dropping a tiny bit of the mixture into the oil. If it sizzles, you’re ready!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent. This ensures even cooking and browning.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with delicious, golden-brown latkes every time!
How to Make Potato Latke Bites With Smoked Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Latkes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Topping:
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, sliced into small pieces
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You can estimate around 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for frying the latkes. Once you gather everything, you’ll be enjoying these tasty bites in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by grating the potatoes and onion. Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess liquid as you can. This helps make the latkes crispy!
2. Make the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until you have a well-combined batter that sticks together.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking—this is the perfect temperature for frying!
4. Fry the Latkes:
Using a tablespoon, drop the potato mixture into the hot oil. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of the spoon to create small rounds. Fry the latkes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain the Latkes:
Once cooked, carefully remove the latkes from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Continue frying with the remaining batter until all latkes are cooked.
6. Prepare the Dill Sour Cream:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with the chopped dill, mixing well. This will be the delicious topping for your latkes!
7. Assemble the Bites:
To put it all together, place a dollop of the dill sour cream on each latke. Then, top it off with a slice or fold of smoked salmon. Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill for a lovely finish!
8. Enjoy Your Creation:
Serve these warm as an elegant appetizer or a delightful snack. Your guests will love them, and so will you!
Can I Make These Latkes in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the latkes ahead of time, fry them, and then keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C) on a baking sheet. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or applesauce for a vegetarian option. It helps bind the ingredients together.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, try to use the oven or a skillet to maintain their crispy texture rather than a microwave.
Can I Freeze the Latkes?
Absolutely! Freeze cooked latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to get them crispy again.
