These potato latke bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, topped with delicious smoked salmon. They’re perfect for a tasty snack or appetizer!
Who can resist a crunchy bite loaded with flavors? I love serving these at parties. They disappear faster than I can keep them on the tray! 🎉
They’re easy to make, too! Just grate some potatoes, fry them up, and add that smokey salmon on top. Simple, fun, and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes give the best crunch due to their high starch content. If you need a substitute, Yukon Golds are a great option for a creamier texture.
Onion: A small grated onion adds flavor to the latkes. You can use a shallot for a milder taste, or omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour binds the mixture. For a gluten-free option, consider using chickpea flour or almond flour, which work well in binding and add a nice flavor.
Smoked Salmon: If you can’t find smoked salmon, lox or even cooked shrimp can work as tasty alternatives. Just adjust the toppings to complement the flavors!
Sour Cream: Crème fraîche is a wonderful swap if you want something richer. Greek yogurt is a healthier option with great tanginess!
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Crispy Latkes?
Achieving crispy latkes is all about moisture and frying temperature. Start by squeezing out as much liquid as possible from your grated potatoes and onions — this step is key!
- When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough; a good test is to drop a small piece of the mixture in, and it should sizzle right away.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches, keeping enough space between each latke to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Flip only when golden brown to keep the crispiness. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed, so they don’t burn.
Letting them drain on paper towels after frying helps to remove extra oil and keeps them crisp for serving!
Potato Latke Bites With Smoked Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Latkes:
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Topping:
- 6 oz smoked salmon, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have crispy latkes ready for serving in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
First, take your grated potatoes and onion and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible—this is the secret to crispy latkes!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potatoes and onion with the egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should form a nice, cohesive mixture.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before you start frying. You can test it by dropping a small amount of the mixture in, and it should sizzle right away!
4. Fry the Latkes:
Using a spoon, scoop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly to form small round latke bites, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
5. Drain the Latkes:
Once the latkes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them nice and crispy!
6. Prepare the Dill Sour Cream:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the chopped dill and lemon juice if you’re using it. Stir well to combine this fresh topping!
7. Assemble the Latke Bites:
To serve, place a slice of smoked salmon on top of each latke bite. Then, dollop a bit of the dill sour cream on top and garnish with a small sprig of dill for that extra touch!
8. Enjoy your Creation:
Arrange your beautiful latke bites on a serving platter and enjoy them warm. These make a fantastic appetizer or snack that everyone will love!
With the crispy latkes, creamy dressing, and flavorful smoked salmon, these potato latke bites are sure to be a hit!
Can I Make These Latke Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the latke mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a stir before frying. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to fry them fresh just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Latke Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze the Latke Mixture?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked latke mixture. Just portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before frying. Keep in mind that the texture may soften a bit once thawed, so they might not be as crispy, but still delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Smoked Salmon?
If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, you can substitute it with lox, gravlax, or even cooked shrimp. For a vegetarian option, try topping with avocado and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning!