Name: Smoked Salmon Pancake: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8-10 pancakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups buttermilk; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing; 8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional garnishes: capers, red onion (thinly sliced), lemon wedges

Smoked salmon pancake: a brunch revelation that will elevate your weekend mornings! Forget the same old routine; prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. Imagine fluffy, golden pancakes embracing the delicate, smoky richness of salmon, all brought together with a tangy cream cheese and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Sounds divine, doesn't it?

While the exact origins of pairing smoked salmon with pancakes are a bit hazy, the combination speaks to a broader culinary trend of blending savory and sweet elements. Pancakes, a breakfast staple enjoyed worldwide in countless variations, provide the perfect canvas for showcasing the sophisticated taste of smoked salmon, a delicacy often associated with Scandinavian and Jewish culinary traditions. The pairing is a modern twist on classic flavors, offering a delightful experience that's both comforting and refined.

People adore this dish for its harmonious blend of flavors. The slight sweetness of the pancake complements the salty, smoky salmon beautifully. The creamy texture of the cheese adds a luxurious touch, while the fresh dill brightens the entire experience. Beyond the taste, smoked salmon pancakes are surprisingly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for a special occasion brunch or even a quick and elegant weeknight dinner. It's a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly approachable, making it a winner in my book!

Ingredients:

For the Pancakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups buttermilk
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing

For the Smoked Salmon Topping:

8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional garnishes: capers, red onion (thinly sliced), lemon wedges

Preparing the Pancake Batter

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures a consistent rise and texture in your pancakes. I like to use a whisk for this step to really aerate the flour.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. Then, slowly drizzle in the melted butter while whisking continuously. This prevents the eggs from cooking and ensures the butter is evenly incorporated into the mixture.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes.
Let the Batter Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the baking powder to activate, resulting in lighter and fluffier pancakes. I find this step makes a huge difference!

Cooking the Pancakes

Heat the Griddle: Preheat a lightly greased griddle or large skillet over medium heat. You want the griddle hot enough so that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates within a few seconds. If the griddle is too hot, the pancakes will burn on the outside before they are cooked through. If it's not hot enough, they'll be pale and flat.
Pour the Batter: Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Leave enough space between the pancakes so they don't run into each other.
Cook the First Side: Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set. This is your cue to flip them!
Flip and Cook the Second Side: Flip the pancakes with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown on the bottom and cooked through. Gently press down on the pancakes with the spatula to ensure even cooking.
Keep Warm (Optional): If you're making a large batch, you can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to prevent them from getting soggy.

Preparing the Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese

Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will make it much easier to mix and create a smooth, creamy spread. If you're short on time, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it completely.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice.
Season with Pepper: Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. I usually don't add salt because the smoked salmon is already quite salty, but you can add a pinch if you prefer.
Mix Well: Mix all the ingredients together until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more lemon juice for extra tang.

Assembling the Smoked Salmon Pancakes

Spread the Cream Cheese: Spread a generous layer of the smoked salmon cream cheese mixture onto each pancake.
Top with Smoked Salmon: Arrange slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese. Don't be shy with the salmon!
Garnish (Optional): Garnish with capers, thinly sliced red onion, and lemon wedges, if desired. These additions add a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Serve Immediately: Serve the smoked salmon pancakes immediately while they are still warm. They are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

Don't Overmix: I can't stress this enough! Overmixing leads to tough pancakes. Mix until just combined.
Hot Griddle is Key: Make sure your griddle is properly heated before you start cooking.
Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps create tender pancakes. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Melted Butter: Using melted butter in the batter adds richness and flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially fresh dill, will elevate the flavor of your smoked salmon pancakes.

Variations and Additions

Add Herbs to the Batter: You can add chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the pancake batter for extra flavor.
Different Types of Smoked Salmon: Experiment with different types of smoked salmon, such as lox or gravlax.
Add a Fried Egg: Top the pancakes with a fried egg for a more substantial breakfast or brunch.
Horseradish Cream: Substitute the cream cheese with horseradish cream for a spicier kick.
Avocado: Add slices of avocado for a creamy and healthy addition.

Storage Instructions

Pancakes: Cooked pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster, microwave, or skillet.
Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese: The smoked salmon cream cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Assembled Pancakes: It's best to assemble the pancakes just before serving. Assembled pancakes don't store well because the pancakes can become soggy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per pancake with topping)

Calories: 350-400
Protein: 20-25g
Fat: 20-25g
Carbohydrates: 20-25g

This recipe is a delightful combination of savory and slightly sweet, perfect for a special breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This smoked salmon pancake recipe is truly a must-try, and I'm not just saying that. The delicate smokiness of the salmon perfectly complements the fluffy, slightly tangy pancake, creating a flavor explosion that's both sophisticated and comforting. It's quick enough for a weekday breakfast, yet elegant enough to serve at a weekend brunch. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked! But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and variations to make it your own. For a classic touch, a dollop of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of fresh dill are always a winning combination. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of brightness, or a few capers for a salty kick. Looking for serving suggestions? These pancakes are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a side of mixed greens for a light and refreshing lunch. You could even cut them into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at your next gathering. Imagine the impressed looks on your guests' faces when they taste these little bites of heaven! And don't be afraid to get creative with the pancake batter itself. For a richer flavor, try using buttermilk instead of regular milk. Or, add a tablespoon of chopped chives or dill directly into the batter for an extra herbaceous note. If you're catering to a gluten-free crowd, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. The possibilities are endless! I've personally made this smoked salmon pancake recipe countless times, and it's always a hit. It's the perfect way to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover smoked salmon you might have lurking in the fridge. But the real magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's so easy to make, even if you're not a seasoned cook. And the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores. So, what are you waiting for? I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a delicious, versatile, and easy way to enjoy the wonderful flavors of smoked salmon.

Ready to give it a try?

I highly encourage you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. And once you've made it, I'd love to hear about your experience! Please, share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you used, and how much you enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to improve my recipes and share even more delicious creations with you. So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get cooking! I can't wait to hear what you think of this amazing smoked salmon pancake recipe. Happy cooking!