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Ina Garten Potato Pancakes with Caviar

Ina Garten Potato Pancakes with Caviar - recipe card

Crispy, golden potato pancakes topped with cool crème fraîche and briny caviar. This elegant appetizer balances textures and flavors, perfect for special occasions. Serve these bite-sized delights at your next gathering for a touch of luxury.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4 medium), peeled and grated
  • 1 medium onion, grated
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup crème fraîche
  • 2 ounces caviar (such as Osetra or Sevruga)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Grate the potatoes and onion using the large holes of a box grater or a food processor fitted with the grating disk. Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible; this step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
  3. Line a plate with paper towels. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of potato mixture into it; it should sizzle immediately.
  4. Using a 1/4-cup measure, drop the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening each into a 3-inch round with a spatula. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  5. Fry the pancakes for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Transfer the pancakes to the paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  6. Repeat with the remaining potato mixture, adding more oil if needed and keeping the cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while you finish.
  7. To serve, top each warm potato pancake with a small dollop of crème fraîche. Carefully spoon a small amount of caviar on top of the crème fraîche. Sprinkle with chopped chives.
  8. Arrange the pancakes on a platter and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Notes

Storage: Store any leftover potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freezing is not recommended as they lose their crispness. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Caviar should be kept refrigerated and used within 2 days of opening.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato pancakes, caviar, Ina Garten, appetizer, hors d'oeuvres, crispy potato, crème fraîche, luxury appetizer, party food, Russian blini, latkes