Potato pancakes, with their crispy edges and soft, savory interiors, are a beloved comfort food across many cultures. But if you’re wondering “What To Serve With Potato Pancakes” to create a complete and satisfying meal, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re looking for classic accompaniments or something a bit more adventurous, we’ll explore a variety of delicious pairings that will elevate your potato pancake experience.
Potato pancakes, at their heart, are quite versatile. Their mild, slightly earthy flavor and satisfying texture make them a fantastic base for a wide range of flavors and dishes. From simple sides to more elaborate main courses, the possibilities are truly extensive. Let’s dive into some of the best options to serve alongside your potato pancakes.
Classic & Simple Pairings
Sometimes, the best pairings are the simplest. These classic accompaniments highlight the comforting nature of potato pancakes without overpowering them.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This is perhaps the most traditional and widely loved topping for potato pancakes. The cool, tangy creaminess of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a wonderful contrast to the warm, savory pancakes. A dollop on top is all you need for a quick and satisfying snack or side.
A close-up of potato pancakes topped with a generous spoonful of sour cream, highlighting the creamy texture against the golden-brown crispness of the pancake.
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Applesauce: The sweet and slightly tart flavor of applesauce is another classic partner for potato pancakes, especially in Eastern European traditions. The sweetness cuts through the richness of the potato, creating a balanced and delightful flavor profile. Homemade applesauce is fantastic, but a good quality store-bought version works just as well.
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Applesauce and Sour Cream Combo: For the best of both worlds, try combining applesauce and sour cream. This duo offers a wonderful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy, enhancing the savory potato flavor.
Savory Side Dishes for Potato Pancakes
To create a more substantial meal, consider serving potato pancakes with savory side dishes. These options complement the potato’s flavor and add depth to your plate.
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Bacon and Eggs: Potato pancakes make an excellent base for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Serve them alongside crispy bacon and perfectly cooked eggs (scrambled, fried, or poached – your choice!). This combination is a comforting and satisfying way to start the day, or to enjoy breakfast for dinner, as the original recipe author’s mom wisely did.
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Sausage: Similar to bacon, sausage provides a savory and meaty element that pairs beautifully with potato pancakes. Consider different types of sausage, such as breakfast sausage, kielbasa, or Italian sausage, to vary the flavor profile.
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Braised Cabbage: In many European cuisines, braised cabbage is a traditional side dish for potato pancakes. The slightly sweet and tangy cabbage, often cooked with onions and caraway seeds, offers a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus provide a healthy and flavorful side. The caramelized sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the savory potato pancakes beautifully.
Potato pancakes served as a side dish next to roasted Brussels sprouts and carrots, showcasing a balanced and colorful meal.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of potato pancakes and provide a light and refreshing counterpoint. Consider adding a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing, depending on your preference.
Main Course Pairings for Potato Pancakes
While potato pancakes are often served as a side, they can also be part of a main course when paired with the right dishes.
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Beef Stew or Goulash: A rich and hearty beef stew or goulash is an excellent main course to serve with potato pancakes. The pancakes are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce and provide a comforting starch to balance the stew.
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Pulled Pork or BBQ: The smoky and savory flavors of pulled pork or BBQ ribs are a fantastic match for potato pancakes. The slight sweetness of BBQ sauce and the tender meat create a delicious and satisfying combination.
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Roast Chicken or Pork: Serve potato pancakes as a side dish alongside roast chicken or pork for a comforting and classic meal. The crispy skin and juicy meat of the roast pair wonderfully with the savory pancakes.
Sauces and Toppings to Enhance Potato Pancakes
Beyond simple sides, consider these sauces and toppings to further customize your potato pancake experience:
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Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions add depth of flavor and richness to potato pancakes. They are especially delicious when paired with sour cream or a dollop of creamy cheese.
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Mushroom Sauce: A creamy mushroom sauce, whether made with wild mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, provides an earthy and umami-rich topping that complements the potato flavor.
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Cheese Sauce: A warm cheese sauce, like cheddar or Gruyère, adds a comforting and indulgent element to potato pancakes. This is a great option for a truly decadent meal. As demonstrated in the original recipe, incorporating Irish cheddar directly into the potato pancakes themselves takes the cheesy flavor to another level!
A stack of loaded mashed potato pancakes with melted cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, green onions, and sour cream, emphasizing the cheesy and savory toppings.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill adds a bright and flavorful finish to potato pancakes. These herbs not only enhance the taste but also add a pop of color to the dish.
Making it a Meal: Complete Potato Pancake Dinner Ideas
To create a complete and balanced meal around potato pancakes, consider these combinations:
- Comfort Food Dinner: Potato pancakes with braised cabbage, kielbasa sausage, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Hearty Brunch: Potato pancakes with bacon, fried eggs, and a side of fresh fruit salad.
- Elegant Dinner: Potato pancakes with beef goulash, a side of roasted asparagus, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Family-Friendly Meal: Cheesy potato pancakes (like the loaded Irish cheddar version!), served with pulled pork or BBQ chicken, and a side of coleslaw.
Ultimately, the best thing to serve with potato pancakes depends on your personal preferences and the occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect pairing. Whether you keep it simple with sour cream and applesauce or create a more elaborate meal, potato pancakes are a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to please.
