Mini Rösti with Sour Cream & Smoked Trout

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These Mini Rösti with Sour Cream & Smoked Trout are elegant, bite-sized potato cakes crisped to perfection and topped with creamy sour cream and delicately flaked smoked trout. An upscale appetizer ideal for entertaining, brunches, and festive occasions.

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Yields20 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time40 mins
Makes 20 mini rösti
For the Rösti
 1 ½ lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 3 medium)
 2 tbsp butter, melted
 1 tbsp flour (optional, for binding)
 ½ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp black pepper
 2 tbsp neutral oil (for frying)
For the Topping
 ½ cup sour cream or crème fraîche
 4 oz smoked trout or smoked salmon, flaked
 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
 1 tbsp chives, finely sliced
 Optional: lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice
Prepare the Potatoes
1
  • Peel and grate potatoes using the large holes of a box grater.

  • Place grated potatoes in a clean towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

  • Transfer to a bowl and mix with melted butter, flour (if using), salt, and pepper.

Form & Cook the Rösti
2
  • Heat oil in a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat.

  • Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of potato mixture into the pan and flatten gently into mini rounds.

  • Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.

  • Keep warm in a low oven if needed.

Top & Serve
3
  • Once rösti are slightly cooled, add a small dollop of sour cream.

  • Top with flaked smoked trout.

  • Garnish with dill, chives, and lemon zest if desired.

Pairing Suggestions
4
  • Wine:

    • Dry sparkling wine (Brut Champagne or Cava)

    • Sauvignon Blanc or Grüner Veltliner

    • Dry Riesling (especially if adding lemon)

  • Cocktails:

    • Classic martini with lemon twist

    • Cucumber gin & tonic

    • Vodka with citrus bitters

  • Other Canapés to Pair With:

    • Shaved Pear & Gorgonzola Crostini

    • Mini Tuna Niçoise Bites

    • Watermelon Feta Skewers

Tips & Notes
5
  • Smoked trout vs. salmon: Trout has a slightly milder, buttery flavor — ideal for delicate bites.

  • Sour cream swap: Use crème fraîche or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.

  • No soggy bottoms: Make sure to squeeze out as much potato moisture as possible.

  • Make ahead: Rösti can be made 1 day ahead and reheated in a 400°F oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp up.

Ingredients

Makes 20 mini rösti
For the Rösti
 1 ½ lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 3 medium)
 2 tbsp butter, melted
 1 tbsp flour (optional, for binding)
 ½ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp black pepper
 2 tbsp neutral oil (for frying)
For the Topping
 ½ cup sour cream or crème fraîche
 4 oz smoked trout or smoked salmon, flaked
 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
 1 tbsp chives, finely sliced
 Optional: lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice
Mini Rösti with Sour Cream & Smoked Trout