Introduction
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish served all year round. They’re quick and easy to make, and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. But what goes well with mashed potatoes? Here, we explore a range of options to help you create the perfect accompaniment to your mashed potatoes.
Gravy
Gravy is a classic accompaniment to mashed potatoes. There are many types of gravy that can be used, including beef, chicken, and vegetable-based gravies. When making gravy, it’s important to remember that the flavor should be savory and not too salty. A good way to achieve this is to use low-sodium broth as the base for the gravy.
When creating flavors for your gravy, consider adding herbs such as rosemary, thyme, sage, or oregano. You can also add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor. For a richer taste, try adding a tablespoon of butter or cream to the gravy.
When serving gravy with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that the gravy is hot before pouring it over the potatoes. This will help ensure that the potatoes are heated through and that the flavors of the gravy are fully released.
Stewed Vegetables
Stewed vegetables are a great way to add color and flavor to mashed potatoes. Popular vegetables to use include carrots, celery, onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers. These vegetables should be cut into small pieces and then cooked in a pan with a little olive oil until they’re tender.
To add flavor to the vegetables, try adding some garlic, herbs, and spices. Once the vegetables are cooked, add them to the mashed potatoes and mix together. The combination of the creamy mashed potatoes and the flavorful vegetables makes for a delicious side dish.
When serving stewed vegetables with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that the vegetables are not overcooked. Overcooked vegetables can become mushy and lose their flavor, so take care to remove them from the heat as soon as they’re tender.
Roasted Chicken
Roasted chicken is an excellent accompaniment to mashed potatoes. The combination of the creamy potatoes and the juicy chicken creates a hearty, comforting meal. To prepare the chicken, season it with salt and pepper and place it in the oven at 375°F for about 45 minutes.
For added flavor, try adding some herbs and spices to the chicken. Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and paprika all work well. Additionally, you can brush the chicken with melted butter or olive oil for a richer flavor. When the chicken is done cooking, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
When serving roasted chicken with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that the chicken is cooked through and that the juices run clear. You may also want to check the internal temperature of the chicken to make sure it’s reached 165°F.
Fried Fish
Fried fish is another excellent accompaniment to mashed potatoes. To prepare the fish, select a firm white fish such as cod or haddock. Cut the fish into small pieces and season it with salt and pepper. Then, coat the fish in a light batter and fry in a pan with a little oil until golden brown.
For added flavor, try adding some herbs and spices to the batter. Parsley, dill, paprika, and cumin all work well. Additionally, you can brush the fish with melted butter or olive oil for a richer flavor. When the fish is done cooking, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
When serving fried fish with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that the fish is cooked through and that the batter is crisp. You may also want to check the internal temperature of the fish to make sure it’s reached 145°F.
Meatloaf
Meatloaf is another popular accompaniment to mashed potatoes. To prepare the meatloaf, choose lean ground beef and combine it with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and herbs. Mix everything together and shape into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased baking dish and bake in the oven at 350°F for about 45 minutes.
For added flavor, try adding some spices to the meatloaf. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cumin all work well. Additionally, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with melted butter or ketchup for a richer flavor. When the meatloaf is done cooking, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
When serving meatloaf with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that the meatloaf is cooked through and that the juices run clear. You may also want to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to make sure it’s reached 160°F.
Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions are a great way to add sweetness and flavor to mashed potatoes. To prepare the onions, slice them thinly and cook them in a pan with butter and sugar until they’re soft and golden brown. To deepen the flavor, try adding some herbs and spices to the onions, such as thyme, oregano, or paprika.
When serving caramelized onions with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that the onions are cooked through and that the sugar has caramelized. You may also want to add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce at the end of cooking to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can be enjoyed all year round. While there are many options for what goes well with mashed potatoes, some of the best accompaniments include gravy, stewed vegetables, roasted chicken, fried fish, meatloaf, and caramelized onions. Each of these dishes adds flavor and texture to the creamy mashed potatoes, creating a delicious meal.
When preparing any of these dishes to go with mashed potatoes, it’s important to ensure that they’re cooked through and that the flavors are balanced. Additionally, adding herbs, spices, and other flavorings can help to enhance the taste of the dish. With these tips in mind, you can create the perfect accompaniment to your mashed potatoes.
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