These crispy potato latke bites topped with smoked salmon are a fun twist on a classic dish! They are golden, crunchy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for parties or a tasty snack.
The combination of crunchy latkes and rich smoked salmon makes every bite special. Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one! I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream to make them even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For the best texture, I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. They have the right amount of starch to make the latkes crispy. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can even try sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor to the latke mix. If you’re sensitive to onion, you could use shallots, which are milder, or omit them altogether. Garlic can also add a nice touch if you enjoy its flavor!
Eggs: Eggs help bind the latke mixture together. If you want a vegan option, try using a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before mixing.
Smoked Salmon: While smoked salmon is traditional, you can substitute it with smoked trout or even lox if you’re looking for something a bit different. For a vegetarian option, consider using slices of avocado.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Latke Bites?
Getting your latkes crispy is key to this recipe. First, make sure to remove excess moisture from the grated potatoes and onions by squeezing them in a kitchen towel. This step is crucial, as moisture will make your latkes soggy!
- Heat the oil to the right temperature. If it’s too cold, your latkes will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Fry them in batches. Don’t overcrowd the skillet—this allows them to crisp up evenly.
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying. This helps remove any extra oil and keeps them crispy.
With these tips, you’ll have latkes that are golden and delicious every time! Enjoy serving them as a tasty bite-sized treat!
Potato Latke Bites With Smoked Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Latke Bites:
- 4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), 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 Topping:
- 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes frying everything up. These delightful bites are fun to make and perfect for serving warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes and Onion:
Start by grating the potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel and twist tightly to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is important for getting your latkes nice and crispy!
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended. Your mixture should hold together when pressed.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers or sizzles when you drop a small amount of the potato mixture into the oil.
4. Fry the Latke Bites:
Using a tablespoon, scoop small portions of the potato mixture and carefully place them in the hot oil. Flatten them slightly to make small latke bites, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Fry for around 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crisp. Be sure to work in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough!
5. Drain the Excess Oil:
Once they’re cooked, transfer the latke bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool for just a minute.
6. Add the Delicious Toppings:
Top each latke bite with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche. Then place a small slice or folded piece of smoked salmon on top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh chives over the latke bites for a vibrant touch. These tasty bites are best served warm, making them a delightful appetizer or snack!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful potato latke bites topped with smooth smoked salmon! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Grated Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen grated potatoes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and squeeze out any excess moisture, as frozen potatoes can hold more water than fresh ones.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you prefer a different topping, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a lighter option.
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 on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps retain their crispiness.
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the latke mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before frying, as some moisture may settle at the bottom!