Are you planning to cook a delicious pork knuckle for your next meal but unsure of what to serve with it?
Look no further! We’ve got you covered with some mouth-watering side dish ideas that will perfectly complement the crispy and tender meat of the pork knuckle.
From warm salads to slaws, we’ve gathered some unique and flavorful options that will take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just cooking for yourself, these side dishes are sure to impress.
So, let’s dive in and discover what to serve with pork knuckle!
What To Serve With Pork Knuckle?
When it comes to serving pork knuckle, there are a variety of side dishes that can perfectly complement this hearty and flavorful dish. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. German Potato Dumplings: Traditionally served with pork knuckle, these sticky balls make the perfect starchy vehicle for mopping up that delicious gravy.
2. Sauerkraut: This tangy and fermented cabbage dish is a classic pairing with pork knuckle, adding a nice acidic balance to the rich meat.
3. Cabbage Salad: A slaw-like salad made with shredded cabbage and a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork knuckle.
4. Warm Salad: Try a warm salad with wilted greens and bacon for a duo of pork flavors, or a sweet and savory couscous salad for a unique twist.
5. Broccoli Slaw: This lightened-up version of classic slaw can be made ahead and is easily adaptable to work with what you have on hand.
6. Brussels Sprouts Salad: This hearty salad takes a little more time to make, but the extra work is worth the flavor and texture combination of brown butter vinaigrette, Brussels sprouts, apple, and hazelnuts.
7. Vegan Caesar Salad: For a vegan option, try a broccoli and kale salad topped with golden croutons and a velvety vegan Caesar dressing made with roasted garlic and cashews.
Warm Salad Options
If you’re looking for a warm salad option to serve with pork knuckle, there are a few different directions you can go in. One option is to try a salad with wilted greens and bacon. The warm bacon vinaigrette will add a deliciously savory element to the dish, while the wilted greens will provide a nice textural contrast to the crispy pork knuckle skin.
Another option is to try a sweet and savory couscous salad. This dish can be made with couscous, dried fruit, nuts, and herbs for a unique flavor combination that pairs well with the rich and hearty taste of pork knuckle. The couscous can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for any season.
If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, you could try a warm German cucumber salad. This version is made with cream and is a popular side dish in northern Germany. The creamy dressing pairs well with the savory pork knuckle, while the cucumber provides a refreshing element to the dish.
No matter what warm salad option you choose, make sure to balance the flavors and textures with the pork knuckle. A good side dish should complement the main course without overpowering it, so keep that in mind as you experiment with different ingredients and flavor profiles.
Classic Potato Sides
Potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pork knuckle. Here are some classic potato sides that will elevate your pork knuckle meal:
1. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad is a perfect side dish for pork knuckle. Creamy and tangy, it offers a refreshing contrast to the rich meat. Add some chopped pickles, celery, and onions for extra crunch.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Roasting potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy exterior. Toss them with some garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with any meat. Add some sour cream or cream cheese for extra tanginess.
4. Potato Gratin: A potato gratin is a decadent side dish that’s perfect for special occasions. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with cream and cheese and baked until golden brown and bubbly.
5. French Fries: Who doesn’t love fries? Crispy and salty, they’re the perfect accompaniment to pork knuckle. Serve them with some homemade aioli or ketchup for dipping.
6. Hasselback Potatoes: Hasselback potatoes are thinly sliced potatoes that are fanned out and roasted until crispy. They’re easy to make and look impressive on the plate.
7. Potato Pancakes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, potato pancakes are a classic German side dish that pairs well with pork knuckle. Serve them with some sour cream or applesauce for dipping.
No matter which potato side dish you choose, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests when served alongside delicious pork knuckle.
Tangy Sauerkraut Pairings
When it comes to pairing tangy sauerkraut with pork knuckle, there are a few options that can enhance the overall flavor profile of this classic dish. Here are some ideas:
1. Mustard: A dollop of mustard can add a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the sauerkraut, complementing the rich and savory flavors of the pork knuckle.
2. Applesauce: A sweet and tart applesauce can provide a nice contrast to the tanginess of the sauerkraut, creating a balanced and flavorful combination.
3. Rye Bread: A slice of hearty rye bread can provide a nice textural contrast to the soft and tender pork knuckle, while also absorbing some of the flavorful juices from the dish.
4. Pickles: Adding some sliced pickles to the sauerkraut can provide an extra layer of tanginess and crunch, creating a dynamic and satisfying flavor profile.
5. Horseradish: A dollop of horseradish can add a spicy and pungent kick to the sauerkraut, creating a bold and flavorful pairing with the pork knuckle.
Refreshing Slaw Ideas
If you’re looking for a lighter and more refreshing side dish to pair with your pork knuckle, consider a slaw. Here are some ideas to inspire your next creation:
1. German Cucumber Salad: This traditional salad is made with cream, sour cream, mayo, and yogurt and is a staple at summertime family gatherings. It’s a perfect balance of tangy and creamy that complements the rich flavor of the pork knuckle.
2. Caribbean Coleslaw: If you’re looking for a sweet and fruity twist on coleslaw, try this mayo-free version with mangos, jalapenos, and Caribbean sauce. The honey adds a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
3. Asian-Inspired Slaw: Mix shredded cabbage with grated carrots, radicchio, snow peas, red onion, and scallions for a colorful and crunchy slaw. The dressing is light and flavorful with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and lime juice.
4. Sweet Cabbage Slaw: This slaw features shredded cabbage with other farm-fresh summer veggies like radicchio and snow peas. The dressing is light and flavorful with just a hint of sweetness from honey and sesame oil.
No matter which slaw you choose to make, it’s sure to add a refreshing contrast to the hearty pork knuckle dish.
Roasted Vegetable Complements
If you’re looking for a healthier option to pair with your pork knuckle, roasted vegetables are a great choice. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables, making them a perfect complement to the savory flavors of the pork. Here are some roasted vegetable ideas to consider:
1. Roasted Butternut Squash: This caramelized and sweet vegetable pairs perfectly with pork knuckle. Simply toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, sage, salt, pepper, and onions (if you like), and roast in the oven until tender.
2. Roasted Carrots: Another simple roasted vegetable option is carrots. Toss fresh carrots with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh thyme for a tangy and sharp flavor that pairs well with pork.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These tiny green cabbages are delicious when roasted until crispy and caramelized. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like before roasting in the oven.
4. Roasted Broccoli: This cruciferous vegetable is packed with flavor and nutrients when roasted until crispy and tender. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and maybe even some Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
5. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, and carrots can add a variety of flavors and textures to your meal. Toss them with olive oil and seasonings before roasting in the oven until tender.
No matter which roasted vegetable you choose to serve with your pork knuckle, it’s sure to be a delicious and healthy addition to your meal.
Bread And Dip Suggestions
In addition to the above side dish suggestions, bread and dips can also be a great addition to your pork knuckle meal. Here are some ideas:
1. Pretzels: Soft and chewy pretzels are a classic German bread that pairs perfectly with pork knuckle. Serve with a spicy mustard or cheese dip for added flavor.
2. Rye Bread: Another traditional German bread, rye bread has a dense texture and nutty flavor that complements the richness of the pork knuckle. Serve with a garlic herb butter or honey mustard dip.
3. Baguette: For a French twist, serve a crusty baguette with a roasted garlic and olive oil dip or a tangy balsamic vinegar and olive oil dip.
4. Focaccia: This Italian flatbread can be served warm with a rosemary and sea salt dip or a sun-dried tomato and basil dip.
5. Pumpernickel Bread: This dense, dark bread is perfect for dipping into a creamy horseradish sauce or a sweet and tangy cranberry mustard dip.
No matter which bread and dip combination you choose, they are sure to add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your pork knuckle meal.
