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LUNCH

Lithuanian Potato Pancakes (Bulviniai Blynai) with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream

These crispy Lithuanian potato pancakes, known as Bulviniai Blynai, are a delightful and savory treat. Topped with rich smoked salmon and a fresh dill cream, they make for an elegant and satisfying lunch.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Grate the peeled potatoes and onion using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated mixture into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

02

In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potato and onion mixture with the egg, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until just combined.

03

Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly to form pancakes about 3-4 inches in diameter.

04

Fry the potato pancakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

05

While the pancakes are frying, prepare the dill cream: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and chopped fresh dill. Mix thoroughly.

06

Arrange the warm potato pancakes on serving plates. Top each pancake with a dollop of dill cream and a slice of smoked salmon.

07

Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious Lithuanian-inspired lunch.

About This Recipe

These crispy Lithuanian potato pancakes, known as Bulviniai Blynai, are a delightful and savory treat. Topped with rich smoked salmon and a fresh dill cream, they make for an elegant and satisfying lunch.
Lithuanian Potato Pancakes (Bulviniai Blynai) with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For extra crispy pancakes, ensure you squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes and onions. Do not overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches if necessary.
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Easy Substitutions

You can substitute crème fraîche for sour cream in the dill cream. If smoked salmon is unavailable, thinly sliced prosciutto or even a fried egg can be a tasty alternative. Chives can be used instead of dill for a slightly different flavor profile.
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Storage & Reheating

Leftover potato pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat until crispy again. Store smoked salmon and dill cream separately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these potato pancakes as a light lunch with a side salad of mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette. They also make an excellent appetizer for a gathering. For a heartier meal, pair them with a bowl of clear vegetable broth. A sprinkle of capers or a squeeze of lemon juice over the salmon can add an extra layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes

1. Not squeezing enough liquid from the potatoes: This leads to soggy pancakes that don't crisp up. Always press out as much moisture as possible. 2. Overcrowding the pan: This lowers the oil temperature and steams the pancakes instead of frying them, resulting in a less crispy texture. 3. Using too high heat: The outside will burn before the inside cooks through. Medium-high heat is ideal for even cooking and browning. 4. Not seasoning adequately: Potatoes need a good amount of salt and pepper to bring out their flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the potato pancake batter ahead of time?

It's best to cook the pancakes immediately after mixing the batter, as the potatoes will start to oxidize and turn brown. However, you can grate the potatoes and onions and squeeze out the liquid a few hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator.

What kind of potatoes are best for potato pancakes?

Starchy potatoes like Russet (Idaho) or Yukon Gold work best as they have less moisture and crisp up nicely.

Can I bake these potato pancakes instead of frying?

While traditional Bulviniai Blynai are fried for crispiness, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. They may not be as crispy as fried ones.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to perfect Bulviniai Blynai is managing the moisture content of the potatoes. Excess liquid will result in soggy pancakes. After grating, pressing the mixture firmly in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth is crucial. You can also let the potato starch settle in the squeezed liquid, pour off the water, and add the starch back to the potato mixture for extra binding and crispiness. This traditional step enhances the texture significantly.
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