Ingredients
1 lb/455 g fingerling potatoes
Fine sea salt
One 13.5 oz/385 g can white beans, drained and rinsed
4 oz/115 g smoked salmon, flaked
One/60 g shallot, minced
2 scallions, both white and green parts, thinly sliced
2 tsp brined green peppercorns, drained
2 Tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley or cilantro
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp black or brown mustard seeds, lightly crushed
1 tsp coriander seeds, lightly crushed
1 tsp red chilli flakes, such as Aleppo, Maras, or Urfa
1 tsp lemon zest
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Smoked salt flakes, as needed
Instructions
- Rinse the potatoes under running water and put them in a medium saucepan. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise. Cover with enough water, about 1 in [2.5 cm] over the tops of the potatoes. Add fine sea salt and bring to a rolling boil over medium- high heat. Turn down the heat to low and let simmer until the potatoes are tender on the inside and a knife slides through the middle with ease, 20 to 30 minutes. Drain the potatoes in a fine mesh sieve or colander. Put them on a clean, dry kitchen towel to let dry and cool for 10 to 15 minutes. When the potatoes are cool, slice in half lengthwise and put them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the beans, salmon, shallots, scallions, brined peppercorns, and parsley to the potatoes. Fold carefully with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Melt the butter in a small skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Once the butter is warm, add the mustard and coriander seeds, swirl the saucepan and cook until the coriander seed turns light brown and fragrant, 30 to 45 seconds. Remove from the heat and stir in the red chilli flakes and lemon zest. Quickly pour the warm spiced mixture over the potatoes in the bowl. Add the lemon juice, season with the smoked salt, and fold gently with a spatula to coat evenly. Taste and season with salt if necessary. Serve immediately
Notes
- o build on the salmon’s smoky flavor, smoked salted flakes (Maldon’s is excellent, but feel free to use your favorite variety) are a quick shortcut.
- Salmon is a fatty fish because it contains unsaturated fatty acids which add a richer fuller taste and texture.
- Brined green peppercorns take the place of the more classic capers and provide a concentrated spot of saltiness, but they also add a mild dose of pepperiness.
- Fresh lemon zest adds to the citrus element from the lemon juice due to its aromatic essential oils.
- Smoked salt flakes add a crunchy texture, saltiness, and a smoky aroma.
