Latkes are a classic Hanukkah dish and a popular choice during other occasions as well. They are crispy, savory potato pancakes that are usually served with sour cream or apple sauce. While latkes themselves are a delicious treat, they are often served as a side dish, leaving many wondering what main course would best complement them.
Finding the perfect main dish to pair with latkes can be a challenge. Some may go for a meat dish, while others prefer vegetarian options. In this article, we will explore a few main dish ideas that complement latkes while also providing the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you are looking for a classic meat dish or an innovative vegetarian option, you will find something to fit your taste preferences.
Traditional Pairings: Exploring Classic Main Courses to Serve with Latkes
When it comes to traditional pairings, there are a few classic main courses to serve with latkes. One of the most popular options is roasted brisket, which is tender and flavorful with a crispy outer crust. Another classic pairing is roasted chicken or turkey with stuffing, which offers a complementary mix of flavors and textures. You can also consider serving latkes with classic Jewish dishes like cholent or tzimmes, which contain hearty stews with beef, beans, and vegetables.
If you’re looking for lighter fare that still pairs well with latkes, consider serving roasted salmon or trout. These fish options have a mild, buttery flavor that won’t overpower the latkes while still offering a delicious and nutritious pairing. Finally, vegetarians or vegans may want to opt for roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. These options pair well with the crispy texture of latkes and offer a range of flavors and nutrients. Overall, there are plenty of traditional pairings to explore when it comes to serving latkes as a main course.
The Perfect Combination: Selecting Sides and Sauces to Complement Your Latkes
Latkes, crispy fried potatoes, are a traditional Jewish dish often served during Hanukkah celebrations. A great side dish or sauce can really bring out the best flavors in latkes. Fortunately, there are many options to consider when selecting sides and sauces to accompany latkes.
One popular choice is sour cream with applesauce. The cool and tangy sour cream complements the crispy and savory latkes so well, while the sweet applesauce adds a subtly sweet and warm flavor. Another option to consider is a rich and creamy hummus. This Middle Eastern dip is made from chickpeas and olive oil and offers a healthy source of protein. Its smooth and flavorful texture pairs well with the latkes, and it also adds a hint of spice. You can also go with a slightly more exotic option and try tzatziki, a yogurt-based dip with cucumbers and garlic. The tanginess of the yogurt, crunch from the cucumber, and pungent aroma of garlic make for a delightfully spicy and flavorful dip that goes well with latkes.
Beyond Brisket: Creative Main Course Ideas for Your Hanukkah Celebration
When it comes to Hanukkah celebrations, it’s easy to fall into the routine of serving brisket as the main course alongside your traditional latkes. However, there are plenty of creative and delicious dishes that can complement the classic potato pancakes.
For a lighter option, consider serving a salad with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. You can also opt for a fish dish, such as salmon or halibut, cooked with herbs and lemon to add a fresh flavor to the meal. If you’re looking to switch things up, try a pasta dish with a cream sauce or a hearty vegetarian stew.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional main course or something more unique to complement your latkes, there are plenty of options to choose from beyond the classic brisket. With a little bit of creativity and experimentation, you can create a memorable and delicious Hanukkah meal for your family and friends.
Plant-Based Options: Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes to Serve with Latkes
For those who follow a plant-based diet, there are plenty of delicious options to pair with latkes. One classic choice is applesauce, which can add a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory latkes. Another popular option is sour cream, which can be substituted with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or cashew cream to make it vegan-friendly.
In addition to these traditional toppings, there are many plant-based main dishes that complement latkes nicely. One option is a hearty vegetable stew, such as a lentil or mushroom stew, which can add a warm and comforting element to the meal. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots are another great option, as their crispy texture and smoky flavor can balance the richness of the latkes. Whatever your dietary preferences, there are endless possibilities to explore when it comes to pairing latkes with delicious plant-based dishes.
Wine and Dine: Selecting the Right Wines to Pair with Your Hanukkah Meal
Pairing wine with a Hanukkah meal can be a challenge, but it’s a task that can be made easier with a few simple guidelines. The first rule to remember is to choose wines that complement, rather than overpower, the flavors of your main dish.
If you’re serving latkes as the main dish, a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel can provide a nice complement to the rich flavors of the potato pancakes. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can also work well, especially if you’re serving latkes with a side dish like applesauce or sour cream. As a general rule, it’s best to avoid heavily oaked or overly tannic wines, which can clash with the delicate flavors of latkes. Ultimately, the key to selecting the right wine for your Hanukkah meal is to experiment with different pairings until you find the perfect match.
Easy and Delicious: Quick and Simple Main Dishes to Serve with Latkes
When it comes to serving main dishes with latkes, sometimes the simpler, the better. After all, latkes themselves require quite a bit of time and effort to make, so why not opt for a stress-free main course that can be thrown together in minutes? Plus, the simplicity of these dishes allows the flavor of the latkes to shine through.
Some quick and easy main dishes to serve with latkes include roasted vegetables, grilled chicken or fish, and simple salads. For roasted vegetables, try roasting some seasonal vegetables in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grilled chicken or fish can be seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon, and can be cooked on a grill pan or outdoor grill. A simple salad of mixed greens, sliced apple, and walnuts dressed with balsamic vinaigrette is a refreshing and healthy option. These dishes are easy to prepare and allow the delicious flavor of the latkes to stand out.
Festive Flavors: Incorporating Hanukkah-Inspired Dishes to Complete Your Meal
Hanukkah is all about tradition and celebrating with family. Therefore, it’s only fitting to incorporate Hanukkah-inspired dishes into your main course. Add a twist to your classic dishes by incorporating traditional flavors like cinnamon, honey, and apple to evoke the essence of the festival.
One dish you can try is brisket with apples and honey glaze. The savory and tangy flavors of beef complement the sweet and fruity taste of apples and honey. For vegetarians, roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes, are a great option. These vegetables have a natural sweetness that pairs well with the earthy flavors of latkes. By adding the Hanukkah-inspired dishes as part of the main course, you can make the celebration of the festival more vibrant and special.
Final Thoughts
Latkes are one of the most traditional and popular dishes of the Jewish Hanukkah festival. However, it can be challenging to decide what main courses go with these potato pancakes. Hence, this article explored some excellent options for main dishes that complement latkes well.
The savory taste of latkes pairs well with a variety of protein options, ranging from meats to fish and vegetarian options. While brisket, salmon, and roasted chicken are classic picks, the article also suggests some lesser-known but equally delicious choices, such as cauliflower steaks and mushroom stroganoff. With these options, you can serve a complete and hearty meal to your family and guests during the festival.