Eat latkes with applesauce, sour cream, smoked salmon, eggs, and crisp salads.
If you have ever wondered what to eat with latkes, you are in the right place. I have cooked, tasted, and served latkes at family tables and large events. This guide shows what to eat with latkes for any mood or meal, with trusted tips, simple pairings, and smart twists that work in real life.
Source: foreignfork.com
Classic pairings that never fail
The two most famous partners are applesauce and sour cream. Both add contrast to the crisp, salty potato pancake. If you are asking what to eat with latkes and want to keep tradition alive, start here.
- Applesauce brings sweet, bright flavor that cuts the oil. Try chunky applesauce for texture or a smooth style for a clean finish.
- Sour cream cools the palate and adds tang. Stir in lemon zest or fresh dill for a lift.
- Caramelized onions add gentle sweetness and umami. A spoon on top of sour cream is magic.
- Chives, dill, or scallions give a fresh snap. Snip them right before serving.
Small note from my kitchen: I keep both toppings out so guests can mix. Half applesauce and half sour cream on one latke is a simple joy.
Source: ainttooproudtomeg.com
Sweet toppings and sauces
If you want a dessert vibe or a sweet counterpoint, this is what to eat with latkes that hits the spot without getting heavy.
- Applesauce variations such as cinnamon applesauce, pear applesauce, or apple-pear compote.
- Berry sauces like raspberry coulis or quick blueberry sauce. The tart fruit wakes up the potato.
- Honey or maple syrup for a gentle glaze. A thin drizzle is all you need.
- Greek yogurt with maple and vanilla. It is creamy like sour cream but lighter.
- Citrus marmalade or lemon-curd yogurt for tang and brightness.
Pro tip: Balance sweet toppings with a pinch of salt on the latke right after frying. It keeps flavors sharp.
Source: platingsandpairings.com
Savory pairings: fish, eggs, and proteins
For a meal that eats like brunch or dinner, these are dependable answers to what to eat with latkes when you want protein and staying power.
- Smoked salmon with crème fraîche, dill, capers, and thin red onion. It is classic and elegant.
- Poached or fried eggs. A runny yolk makes a silky sauce for every bite.
- Shakshuka-style eggs. Spoon warm tomato-pepper sauce over a latke and top with an egg.
- Pastrami or corned beef for a deli plate feel. Add mustard and pickles on the side.
- Slow-cooked brisket. The rich sauce loves the crisp edges of a latke.
- Sautéed mushrooms with thyme and garlic. This is a great vegetarian option with deep savory notes.
From experience, I keep salmon and dairy on one platter and meats on another if I am observing kosher style meals. It keeps everyone comfortable and the flavors clean.
Source: americastestkitchen.com
Fresh sides: salads, pickles, and vegetables
Crisp, acidic sides brighten fried food. If you search what to eat with latkes for balance, reach for fresh greens and tangy vegetables.
- Cucumber and dill salad with lemon or vinegar.
- Israeli salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, and a light lemon dressing.
- Simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil.
- Classic coleslaw, either creamy or vinegar based, to add crunch.
- Roasted beets or quick pickled beets for earth and color.
- A warm bowl of borscht or a light chicken soup as a starter.
I like to place a bowl of half-sour pickles on the table. The snap and brine cut through the richness like a charm.
Modern and global twists
Curious cooks often ask what to eat with latkes beyond the usual. Here are creative toppings that still respect the potato.
- Tzatziki or labneh with za’atar for a Middle Eastern note.
- Tahini with lemon and garlic. Add pomegranate seeds for sparkle.
- Kimchi or quick pickled cabbage for heat and tang. A dab of gochujang mayo goes well too.
- Salsa verde, pico de gallo, or guacamole for a bright, fresh finish.
- Curry yogurt with mango chutney for sweet heat.
- Gravlax with mustard-dill sauce if you like Nordic flavors.
One of my biggest crowd-pleasers was a latke “slider.” I used two small latkes as buns with brisket in the middle and a dab of horseradish cream. It disappeared fast.
Source: foreignfork.com
Dietary and health considerations
If you wonder what to eat with latkes and still feel light, these tips help. They come from standard cooking and nutrition guidance and many rounds of testing in my kitchen.
- Choose high smoke point oils such as avocado or canola to keep flavors clean.
- Try air-frying or oven-baking for fewer calories and less mess.
- Use sweet potatoes or a mix of potato and zucchini for more fiber.
- Keep portions modest and pair with protein and greens.
- For gluten free needs, bind with potato starch or a certified gluten free flour.
- If you keep kosher, avoid serving meat with dairy toppings in the same course.
I also salt latkes after frying and not in the batter. It reduces the risk of soggy centers.
Hosting a latke bar: menus and tips
A latke bar helps everyone find what to eat with latkes that fits their taste. It is interactive, fast, and fun.
Try one of these set menus:
- The Classic: Applesauce, sour cream, chives, and caramelized onions.
- The Brunch: Smoked salmon, crème fraîche, capers, and soft eggs.
- The Deli: Brisket, mustard, horseradish cream, and pickles.
- The Fresh: Arugula salad, cucumber salad, and lemon yogurt.
- The Global: Tzatziki, kimchi, tahini, and salsa verde.
Serving tips:
- Keep latkes hot on a wire rack in a warm oven. Avoid stacking.
- Fry in batches and refresh in the oven to keep them crisp.
- Label toppings and note allergens like dairy or eggs.
- Offer small plates so guests build two-bite stacks.
Beverage ideas:
- Sparkling wine or cider with classic pairings.
- Light beer or sour beer with rich meats.
- Hot tea or coffee at brunch.
Source: dinneralovestory.com
PAA-style quick answers about what to eat with latkes
If you still ask what to eat with latkes for a specific meal, these quick ideas help at a glance.
What sauce goes best with potato latkes?
Applesauce and sour cream are the top choices for contrast and balance. For a twist, try dill yogurt or tahini lemon sauce.
What meat pairs well with latkes?
Brisket, pastrami, and roast chicken work well thanks to rich flavors and sauces. Add pickles or slaw to keep the meal bright.
Can I serve latkes for breakfast?
Yes. Top with smoked salmon and an egg or keep it simple with applesauce and fruit.
Source: whatjewwannaeat.com
Frequently Asked Questions of what to eat with latkes
Can I make latkes ahead and still keep them crisp?
Yes. Fry, cool on a rack, and reheat in a hot oven until crisp. Do not cover with foil, which traps steam.
What oil should I use for frying latkes?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as avocado or canola. This keeps the latkes light and helps avoid burnt flavors.
Are there dairy free options for toppings?
Yes. Try applesauce, tahini, guacamole, salsa verde, or pickled vegetables. These keep big flavor without dairy.
What to eat with latkes if I want a lighter plate?
Add a big salad, a simple protein like eggs or smoked fish, and fresh herbs. Keep toppings bright and portions modest.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russets?
Yes. Sweet potato latkes are great with yogurt, lime, and chili flakes. They also pair well with tangy slaw or tahini.
Conclusion
You now have a full map for what to eat with latkes, from classic applesauce to global twists and full meal ideas. Mix one rich topper with one fresh side, and you will hit perfect balance every time. Try a latke bar this week, test two new toppings, and share your favorite combo. Want more guides like this? Subscribe and drop your questions or pairing wins in the comments.