What to serve with potato sausage?

Introduction

Potato sausage is a comforting and versatile dish that can be the star of any meal. When considering what to serve with potato sausage, choosing the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. The perfect pairing enhances the flavors of the sausage while providing a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer traditional accompaniments or are looking to try something new, this guide will help you create the perfect meal. In this exploration, we’ll delve into a variety of side dishes, from classic to modern, that complement potato sausage beautifully. Let’s dive into the world of delicious pairings.

1. Traditional Side Dishes for Potato Sausage

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly when you serve potato sausage. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the savory, meaty flavors of the sausage. To enhance the dish, add butter, cream, and a touch of garlic. This simple addition creates a rich, flavorful side that enhances the sausage. Furthermore, you can also experiment with different types of potatoes to achieve your desired consistency, whether smooth or chunky.

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut adds a tangy contrast to the richness of potato sausage. This fermented cabbage dish is popular in many European cuisines, especially in Germany and Eastern Europe. The acidity of sauerkraut cuts through the fat in the sausage, providing a refreshing balance. For the best experience, serve potato sausage with warm sauerkraut alongside. You can also add caraway seeds or apples to the sauerkraut for extra flavor.

Lingonberry Sauce

is a traditional Swedish accompaniment to potato sausage, cherished for its ability to enhance the dish. The tartness of the lingonberries perfectly complements the savory sausage, creating a delightful balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Typically, you can find lingonberry sauce in many grocery stores, often in the international or jam section. However, if you prefer a homemade touch, you can easily make your own sauce by cooking fresh or frozen lingonberries with sugar until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. When serving, you can either place the sauce on the side as a dip or drizzle it over the sausage for an added burst of fruity flavor that beautifully contrasts with the richness of the sausage. Overall, lingonberry sauce adds a unique, flavorful dimension to the meal, making it a must-try addition.

Boiled Potatoes

Boiled potatoes are another simple and classic pairing with potato sausage. They are easy to prepare and can be seasoned in various ways to complement the sausage. Consider adding fresh dill, butter, or a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor. This side dish is especially popular in Scandinavian cuisine, where it’s often served with a generous dollop of butter.

2. Vegetable-Based Sides

Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and pair wonderfully with potato sausage. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets are particularly good choices. To prepare, toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. The roasted vegetables add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the sausage.

Steamed Green Beans
Steamed green beans are a light and healthy side that pairs well with the rich flavors of potato sausage. Moreover, the fresh, crisp texture of the beans provides a nice contrast to the sausage. To add more flavor, toss the green beans with a little butter, garlic, and lemon juice. Ultimately, this simple preparation enhances the beans without overpowering the main dish.

Carrot and Parsnip Puree
Carrot and parsnip puree offers a sweet and creamy alternative to mashed potatoes. The natural sweetness of the carrots and parsnips complements the savory sausage, creating a balanced dish. To make the puree, boil the carrots and parsnips until tender, then blend them with butter and cream until smooth. This side dish adds a vibrant color and a unique flavor to your meal.

Sautéed Cabbage
Sautéed cabbage is a light and crunchy side that pairs well with potato sausage. The mild flavor of the cabbage complements the rich sausage, while its crunchy texture adds a pleasant contrast. To prepare, slice the cabbage thinly and sauté it in a pan with butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt until it’s tender but still crisp. You can also add a splash of vinegar for a bit of tanginess.

3. Bread and Grains

Crusty Bread or Rolls
Crusty bread or rolls are excellent companions for potato sausage. They help balance the meal by providing a neutral base that complements the strong flavors of the sausage. Choose a hearty, crusty loaf like a sourdough or a baguette to soak up the sausage juices. Rolls are also a good option, especially when served warm with butter. Bread adds a comforting element to the meal and is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.

Polenta
Polenta is a creamy, corn-based side dish that pairs beautifully with potato sausage. The mild flavor of polenta allows the sausage to shine while adding a rich, comforting texture to the meal. To prepare, cook polenta with water or broth, then stir in butter and cheese for extra creaminess. You can also top the polenta with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese.

Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a flavorful and versatile side that works well with potato sausage. By adding herbs, spices, and vegetables, you can create a rice dish that complements the sausage perfectly. Consider using broth instead of water for cooking the rice, and add ingredients like onions, garlic, and bell peppers for extra flavor. Rice pilaf is a great way to incorporate more grains into your meal while balancing the richness of the sausage.

Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a healthy, grain-based option that pairs nicely with potato sausage. The nutty flavor of quinoa provides a satisfying contrast to the savory sausage. To make the salad, cook the quinoa and mix it with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add a light vinaigrette dressing to tie the flavors together. Quinoa salad is not only nutritious but also adds a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.

4. Salads and Light Sides

Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a refreshing side that balances the richness of potato sausage. In particular, the crisp texture and light flavor of cucumbers make this salad a perfect accompaniment. For a simple preparation, slice the cucumbers thinly and toss them with vinegar, sugar, salt, and dill. As a result, this tangy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the savory sausage, making it an excellent choice for a lighter meal.

Tomato and Onion Salad
Tomato and onion salad is a juicy, tangy side that adds freshness to your meal. The acidity of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the onions provide a nice contrast to the rich sausage. To prepare, slice tomatoes and onions, then drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil for added flavor. This salad is simple yet flavorful, making it a great addition to any meal.

Mixed Green Salad
A mixed green salad is a versatile side that pairs well with potato sausage. Specifically, the fresh, crisp greens offer a light and healthy balance to the heavier sausage. Moreover, you can customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, nuts, and dressings to suit your taste. For example, for a simple yet flavorful salad, toss mixed greens with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Additionally, you can add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shaved Parmesan for extra flavor.

5. Sauces and Condiments

Mustard-Based Sauces

Herbed Butter
Herbed butter is a simple yet flavorful condiment that pairs beautifully with potato sausage. To begin, make herbed butter by mixing softened butter with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives. Once prepared, you can spread the herbed butter over the sausage or serve it on the side. Additionally, the rich, creamy butter adds a luxurious touch to the meal and enhances the flavors of the sausage.

Gravy
Gravy is a rich, savory sauce that complements potato sausage perfectly. You can make a simple gravy using the drippings from the sausage, flour, and broth. For extra flavor, add herbs, onions, or garlic to the gravy. Serve the gravy over the sausage or on the side for dipping. This hearty sauce adds depth and richness to the meal, making it a satisfying choice.

6. Drinks and Beverages

Beer Pairings
Beer is a popular beverage choice to serve with potato sausage, offering a range of flavors that can elevate the meal. Specifically, the right beer can enhance the flavors of the sausage and complement the entire dish. For instance, a light lager or pilsner pairs exceptionally well with the rich, savory sausage, providing a refreshing contrast that cuts through the heaviness. On the other hand, if you prefer something with more depth, a dark beer like a stout or porter adds a robust flavor that complements the heartiness of the sausage. Additionally, consider serving the beer chilled for the best experience, as the cool temperature further enhances the refreshing qualities of the beverage. Ultimately, choosing the right beer can add a new dimension to your meal, making it even more enjoyable.

Wine Pairings
Wine is another excellent beverage option to serve with potato sausage. Both red and white wines can work, depending on the flavors of the dish. A light red wine, like Pinot Noir, offers a fruity and slightly acidic flavor that pairs well with sausage. For a white wine, consider a Riesling or Chardonnay, which provide a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich sausage. Serve the wine slightly chilled to enhance its flavors.

7. Dessert Ideas

Apple Strudel
Apple strudel is a classic dessert that pairs wonderfully with potato sausage. The sweet and tart flavors of the apples contrast nicely with the savory sausage, providing a balanced finish to the meal. To make apple strudel, roll out a thin pastry dough, fill it with spiced apples, and bake until golden brown. Serve the strudel warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

Creamy Rice Pudding
Creamy rice pudding is a comforting dessert that pairs well with potato sausage. The mild, sweet flavor of the pudding provides a soothing contrast to the savory meal. To prepare, cook rice in milk with sugar and a touch of vanilla until it becomes thick and creamy. You can also add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled, topped with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What vegetables go well with potato sausage?
Vegetables like roasted carrots, parsnips, and steamed green beans pair well with potato sausage. Their natural sweetness and crisp texture provide a nice contrast to the rich sausage.

Can I serve potato sausage with pasta?
Yes, potato sausage can be served with pasta. Consider pairing it with a simple pasta dish, like spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, to complement the flavors of the sausage.

What is the best bread to serve with potato sausage?
Crusty bread, such as sourdough or a baguette, pairs best with potato sausage. The hearty texture and mild flavor of the bread balance the richness of the sausage.

How do I make a sauce for potato sausage?
To make a sauce for potato sausage, consider mustard-based sauces, herbed butter, or gravy. Each of these options enhances the flavor of the sausage and adds depth to the meal.

What drinks pair well with potato sausage?
Beer and wine are excellent drink pairings for potato sausage. Light lagers, pilsners, and Riesling wines are particularly good choices.

Conclusion

Potato sausage is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Whether you prefer traditional sides like mashed potatoes and sauerkraut or are looking to try something new, there are endless options to explore. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing, and enjoy a delicious, well-balanced meal. With these suggestions in mind, you’re well-equipped to create a memorable dining experience that truly celebrates the rich flavors of potato sausage. So, go ahead and enjoy your meal!