North Americans have a long-standing tradition of enjoying potatoes with their holiday suppers — in fact, approximately 70 per cent of households serve mashed potatoes at Christmas, often slathered in butter, cream, and seasonings. Yum!
But we’re not the only ones who enjoy the versatile spud on special occasions — and for good reason. As Canadian chef Michael Smith noted in this Spud Smart article from 2016, “Potatoes themselves are nutrient-dense. They are a healthy vegetable, and it falls to people like me to pass that message on. Sure, if you’re eating French Fries every day, or potatoes are the only vegetable in your diet, it becomes a problem. But it’s not the potato’s fault. This is a terrific vegetable, and we should be eating it.”
We couldn’t agree more!
And if you’re looking for fresh ways to serve them this season, check out this list of traditional potato dishes popular around the world. Which ones would you add to your holiday feast?
Potato Latkes
Popular in Jewish communities, these crispy potato pancakes are traditionally eaten during Hanukkah. Made from potatoes and onions, they’re fried until golden and often served with applesauce or sour cream.
Rösti
Served plain or topped with cheese, herbs, or even alongside eggs, these hashbrown-like potatoes are a popular side during festive meals in Switzerland.
Colcannon
This traditional Irish dish consists of mashed potatoes mixed with kale or cabbage and sometimes served with a well of melted butter at the center. About 10 percent of households enjoy this rich side at Christmas.
Potato Salad
North Americans generally associate the potato salad — hot or cold — with summer barbecues, but in Germany, “Kartoffelsalat” is often a Christmas supper staple, typically served with a vinegar-based dressing rather than mayonnaise. For an interesting take on a typical potato salad, check out this recipe chef
Potato Dumplings
Often made from grated or mashed potatoes mixed with flour and eggs, formed into balls, and served in soups or as a side dish, these dumplings are a popular side dish in Polish and Czech holiday cuisines.
Shepherd’s Pie or Cottage Pie
This classic dish made with a meat filling and topped with mashed potatoes is a warm comfort food sometimes enjoyed during winter holidays in the United Kingdom. More common, though, are roast potatoes — parboiled, then tossed in hot goose fat and roasted until crispy.
Tortilla Española
A Spanish omelette made from eggs and potatoes, this dish is commonly served during festive gatherings in Spain, often making an appearance at tapas-style meals or holiday buffets.
Aloo Gobi:
A flavorful Indian vegetarian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, aloo gobi is often served during festive meals, including Diwali celebrations.
Pommes de Terre Sarladaises
In France, “Pommes de Terre Sarladaises” are often prepared during the holidays. This dish features potatoes sautéed in duck fat and cooked with garlic and parsley. Gratin Dauphinois, a creamy potato gratin, is also popular.
Patate al Forno
Seasoned with herbs and garlic, these roasted potatoes are popular as a side dish in Italian Christmas feasts. Gnocchi, a type of potato dumpling, is a close side second.
Of course, these are just a few examples — potato dishes vary widely in preparation and serving styles according to regional preferences and holiday customs. Delicious, any way you slice them.
How does your family enjoy potatoes over the holidays?
