These crunchy potato latke bites are topped with creamy smoked salmon for a taste that’s hard to beat! Perfect for a snack or a fun appetizer at parties.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! I love serving these with a dollop of sour cream on the side—it’s such a tasty combo. Plus, they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet potatoes: They’re starchy and perfect for latkes. If you can’t find russets, Yukon Golds can work too, giving a creamier texture.
Onion: I like using yellow onion for its sweetness. If you want a milder flavor, go for green onions or shallots!
Smoked salmon: This adds a luxurious touch to the bites. If you’re looking for alternatives, try lox or even cooked shrimp for a different flavor profile.
Sour cream: It provides great creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use vegan sour cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get Crispy Latkes?
The key to crispy latkes is removing excess moisture from the potatoes. Here’s how:
- After grating the potatoes and onion, place them in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze the towel tightly to wring out as much liquid as you can. This step is crucial for crispy bites!
- Fry them in hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Let them cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Resting on paper towels helps absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have perfect latkes every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Potato Latke Bites With Smoked Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Latkes:
- 3 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Toppings:
- 8 ounces smoked salmon, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total to prepare and cook. Plan for about 10-15 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and another 15-20 minutes to fry the latkes and assemble your delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onion:
Start by peeling and grating the potatoes along with the onion. Place all of this in a clean kitchen towel and gather the towel up. Twist it tightly to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is super important to keep your latkes crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained potato and onion mixture with the beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. It should be a thick, cohesive mixture that holds together.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large frying pan, pour in about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. You want it hot enough to fry the latkes to a nice golden brown.
4. Fry the Latkes:
Using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop, drop small mounds of the potato mixture into the hot oil. Flatten each mound slightly to form round patties about 2-3 inches in diameter. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking!
5. Cook Until Crispy:
Fry the latkes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once done, gently transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Prepare the Dill Sour Cream:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, chopped dill, and lemon juice (if you’re using it). This flavorful topping will add a nice zing to the latkes!
7. Assemble Your Bites:
Once the latkes have cooled slightly, it’s time to top them! Place a dollop of the dill sour cream on each latke and then add a piece of the smoked salmon on top.
8. Garnish and Serve:
To make them look extra special, garnish each latke bite with a small sprig of fresh dill. Serve these crispy, flavorful bites immediately, and enjoy every delicious moment!
These latke bites are perfect as an appetizer or a tasty snack. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Make These Latkes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potato and onion mixture ahead of time! Just keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. However, the latkes are best served fresh for maximum crispiness.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed potatoes. This will help bind the mixture without using eggs.
How to Store Leftover Latkes?
Store any leftover latkes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed and crispy again.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! You can mix it up with toppings like creme fraiche, capers, or even avocado slices for a different flavor. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
