Latkes, those golden-brown, crispy potato pancakes, are a cornerstone of Hanukkah celebrations and a comfort food staple enjoyed year-round. While traditionally served with sour cream and applesauce, the culinary landscape offers a vast array of delectable pairings that elevate the humble latke to gourmet heights. Let’s embark on a flavorful exploration to discover the perfect accompaniments for your next batch of latkes.
The Traditional Pairings: Sour Cream and Applesauce
The classic combination of sour cream and applesauce with latkes is a testament to the power of simplicity and contrast. The cool, tangy sour cream cuts through the richness of the fried potatoes, while the sweet and slightly acidic applesauce provides a complementary sweetness.
Why These Classics Work
The beauty of this pairing lies in its balanced flavors. The richness of the latke necessitates something to cleanse the palate. Sour cream, with its high fat content and slight acidity, performs this role admirably. Applesauce, on the other hand, offers a contrasting sweetness that prevents the savory latke from becoming overwhelming. This dynamic interplay creates a harmonious and satisfying culinary experience.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating the Classics
Even within the traditional realm, there’s room for innovation. Experiment with different varieties of applesauce, such as cinnamon-spiced, chunky, or homemade versions. For sour cream, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or chives, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Savory Sensations: Expanding Your Latke Horizons
While sweet and sour are delightful, the savory possibilities with latkes are truly limitless. These potato pancakes serve as an excellent canvas for a diverse range of flavors and textures.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese
This pairing brings a touch of elegance to the table. The smoky, salty flavor of the salmon complements the earthy potatoes, while the creamy cheese adds richness and texture.
The cream cheese acts as a blank canvas for additional flavors. Consider adding chopped dill, capers, or even a hint of lemon zest to elevate the experience further. The combination of salty, smoky, creamy, and potatoey is a symphony of flavors.
Pulled Pork or Brisket
For a heartier meal, top your latkes with slow-cooked pulled pork or brisket. The tender, flavorful meat creates a satisfying and substantial dish.
The key here is to choose a well-seasoned meat. A barbecue sauce with a good balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes works exceptionally well. The crispiness of the latke provides a welcome textural contrast to the tender meat.
Caramelized Onions and Balsamic Glaze
The sweetness of caramelized onions, combined with the tangy acidity of balsamic glaze, offers a sophisticated counterpoint to the latke’s savory nature.
The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, creating a depth of flavor that is both comforting and complex. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of elegance and a subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness of the latke. This is a surprisingly elegant and flavorful combination.
Herbed Goat Cheese and Roasted Vegetables
For a vegetarian option, consider topping your latkes with creamy herbed goat cheese and roasted vegetables. The tangy goat cheese provides a flavorful base, while the roasted vegetables add sweetness and texture.
Choose vegetables that complement each other in flavor and color. Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant are all excellent choices. Roasting them with a touch of olive oil, garlic, and herbs brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Global Inspirations: Latkes Around the World
The versatility of latkes allows for endless culinary exploration. Drawing inspiration from global cuisines can result in surprising and delicious pairings.
Kimchi and Gochujang Mayo
For a Korean-inspired twist, top your latkes with spicy kimchi and a dollop of gochujang mayo. The fermented kimchi adds a tangy, spicy kick, while the gochujang mayo provides a creamy and savory counterpoint.
The key to this pairing is to choose a kimchi that is not overly sour. A slightly sweet and spicy kimchi works best. The gochujang mayo can be made by simply mixing mayonnaise with a small amount of gochujang paste.
Guacamole and Salsa
For a Latin-inspired treat, top your latkes with creamy guacamole and fresh salsa. The avocado provides a rich and smooth base, while the salsa adds a burst of freshness and flavor.
The guacamole should be well-seasoned with lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño. The salsa can be either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. The combination of creamy, fresh, and spicy flavors is a delight.
Tzatziki Sauce and Feta Cheese
Drawing inspiration from Greek cuisine, top your latkes with cool and refreshing tzatziki sauce and crumbled feta cheese. The tangy yogurt sauce complements the savory latke, while the salty feta adds a burst of flavor.
The tzatziki sauce should be made with thick Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, and lemon juice. The feta cheese should be crumbled and sprinkled generously over the top. This is a light and refreshing option, perfect for warmer weather.
The Sweet Side: Latkes as Dessert
While typically served as a savory dish, latkes can also be transformed into a delightful dessert. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
Nutella and Berries
For a simple yet decadent treat, spread Nutella on your latkes and top with fresh berries. The hazelnut chocolate spread adds a rich and creamy sweetness, while the berries provide a burst of freshness and acidity.
The Nutella should be spread evenly over the latke while it is still warm. This will allow the spread to melt slightly and create a luscious topping. Choose berries that are in season for the best flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar and Maple Syrup
A classic combination that never fails to please. Sprinkle your latkes with cinnamon sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for a warm and comforting dessert.
The cinnamon sugar adds a touch of sweetness and warmth, while the maple syrup provides a rich and complex flavor. This is a simple yet satisfying dessert option.
Ricotta Cheese and Honey
For a lighter and more sophisticated dessert, top your latkes with creamy ricotta cheese and a drizzle of honey. The ricotta provides a smooth and delicate base, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness and floral notes.
The ricotta cheese should be fresh and creamy. The honey should be of good quality and have a distinct flavor. This is a light and elegant dessert option.
Drinks that Complement Latkes
The perfect drink pairing can enhance your latke experience. Consider these options:
Sparkling Wine or Cider
The bubbles and acidity of sparkling wine or cider cut through the richness of the latkes, cleansing the palate and preparing it for the next bite.
Light-Bodied White Wine
A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can also complement the flavors of latkes without overpowering them.
Dark Beer
For savory pairings, a dark beer like a stout or porter can provide a complementary roasted flavor and a satisfying contrast to the richness of the latkes.
Hot Tea
A warm cup of tea, such as black tea or herbal tea, can be a comforting accompaniment to latkes, especially during colder months.
Latke Topping Bar: A Fun and Interactive Experience
Consider setting up a latke topping bar at your next Hanukkah gathering. This allows guests to customize their own latkes with a variety of sweet and savory toppings.
Some suggested toppings include:
- Sour cream
- Applesauce
- Smoked salmon
- Cream cheese
- Caramelized onions
- Balsamic glaze
- Herbed goat cheese
- Roasted vegetables
- Kimchi
- Gochujang mayo
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Tzatziki sauce
- Feta cheese
- Nutella
- Berries
- Cinnamon sugar
- Maple syrup
- Ricotta cheese
- Honey
A latke topping bar is a fun and interactive way to allow guests to explore different flavor combinations and discover their own perfect pairing.
Tips for Making Perfect Latkes
The key to a great latke experience starts with the latkes themselves. Here are some tips for making them perfectly:
- Use starchy potatoes, such as Russets.
- Grate the potatoes and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Use a hot pan and plenty of oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Flip the latkes when they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the latkes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion: A World of Latke Possibilities
The traditional pairings of sour cream and applesauce are classics for a reason, but the world of latke accompaniments is vast and exciting. From savory to sweet, and from global cuisines to simple comforts, there’s a perfect pairing for every palate. Experiment, explore, and discover your own favorite ways to enjoy these delicious potato pancakes. The key is to find flavors and textures that complement the richness of the latkes and create a balanced and satisfying culinary experience. Happy cooking and happy eating!
What are some non-traditional toppings for latkes that move beyond sour cream and applesauce?
While sour cream and applesauce are classic and beloved latke accompaniments, there’s a world of flavors to explore. Consider savory options like smoked salmon with crème fraîche and dill, a vibrant beet and horseradish relish, or even pulled pork with a tangy barbecue sauce. These options offer a delightful contrast to the fried potato pancakes and provide a more substantial and satisfying meal.
For those seeking sweeter alternatives, think beyond applesauce. Caramelized onions with balsamic glaze provide a rich and savory-sweet experience, while a dollop of fig jam adds a sophisticated touch. You could even experiment with a spiced cranberry compote for a festive twist, offering a balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the savory latke.
Can latkes be part of a larger meal, and if so, what dishes pair well with them?
Latkes are incredibly versatile and can certainly be integrated into a larger meal. They work beautifully as a side dish, offering a starchy counterpoint to heartier protein options. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken, brisket, or even a simple pan-seared salmon. The fried texture of the latkes provides a welcome contrast to the often softer textures of the main courses.
Beyond protein, latkes pair well with a variety of vegetable dishes. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the latkes. Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, seasoned with herbs and spices, offer a complementary earthy flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Are there any global flavors that complement latkes?
Absolutely! Latkes, at their core, are essentially potato pancakes, which exist in various forms across many cultures. This inherent flexibility makes them a great canvas for global flavor combinations. Think of topping them with kimchi and a fried egg for a Korean-inspired twist, or with guacamole and salsa for a Latin American flair.
For an Eastern European inspired experience, consider topping them with a dollop of mushroom stroganoff. A sprinkle of za’atar with a drizzle of tahini offers a Middle Eastern nuance. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, sauces, and toppings from different cuisines to create a unique and delicious fusion dish.
What types of sauces, besides sour cream and applesauce, go well with latkes?
The possibilities for sauces to accompany latkes are vast, limited only by your imagination. Creamy sauces like tzatziki, with its refreshing cucumber and dill flavors, or a horseradish cream, offering a spicy kick, can be excellent choices. These sauces provide a cooling and contrasting element to the warm, fried latkes.
On the other hand, richer sauces, like a truffle aioli or a balsamic glaze, can elevate the latke experience to a more gourmet level. A simple brown butter sauce with sage adds a nutty and aromatic touch. Even a spicy sriracha mayo can provide a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Can latkes be used in creative ways beyond just being served as a side dish?
Indeed! Latkes can be surprisingly versatile and used in a variety of creative culinary applications. They can serve as a base for miniature appetizers, topped with smoked salmon and dill or a dollop of caviar. They can also be layered in a stack to create a savory “latke cake,” with layers of different toppings in between.
Consider using latkes as the “bread” in a mini-sandwich or slider, filled with pulled pork, pastrami, or even grilled vegetables. Cut into smaller pieces, they can even be used as croutons in a hearty soup or salad, adding a crispy and savory element. The possibilities are endless!
What are some vegan toppings and pairings for latkes?
Vegan latkes can be just as delicious and versatile as traditional ones, and there are plenty of vegan toppings to complement them. Vegan sour cream, readily available in most grocery stores, is a classic option. Alternatively, a cashew-based cream sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices, provides a rich and satisfying alternative.
Applesauce, of course, remains a great vegan option, but you can also explore other fruit compotes like cranberry or pear. Savory vegan toppings like a mushroom duxelles, a spiced lentil stew, or a roasted vegetable medley offer hearty and flavorful pairings. Don’t forget about vegan gravy for a comforting and satisfying meal.
How does the type of potato used in the latkes affect what toppings pair well with them?
The type of potato used significantly influences the texture and flavor of latkes, which in turn affects the best topping pairings. Starchy potatoes like russets result in drier, crispier latkes, which can handle heavier, richer toppings like sour cream, applesauce, or even pulled pork. Their neutral flavor allows other ingredients to shine.
Waxier potatoes, such as Yukon Golds, produce moister and slightly sweeter latkes. These are well-suited to lighter, brighter toppings like a vibrant salsa verde, a dollop of crème fraîche, or a fresh herb salad. The subtle sweetness of the potato pairs well with acidic or herby flavors, creating a balanced and harmonious dish.