What To Serve With Kugel: 15 Tasty Side Dishes

Kugel is a comfort food like no other, serving up warmth in every spoonful. This baked casserole dish, commonly made from potato or noodle, is a staple in Jewish cuisine.

But what to serve with kugel? Here are 15 delicious side dishes that will bring balance, contrast, and joy to your meal with noodle kugel. Each option brings something unique to the table, ensuring every forkful is a tasty delight.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with kugel are Jewish brisket, cholent, shakshuka, Caesar salad, chicken soup, gefilte fish, zucchini fritters, applesauce, cucumber salad, pickled beets, tzatziki sauce, potato latkes, roast vegetables, matzo ball soup, coleslaw.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Jewish Brisket

When it comes to a hearty meat dish, Jewish brisket is the way to go. The slow-cooked, tender beef pairs amazingly with the creamy texture of kugel. The rich, tomato-based gravy from the brisket can even act as an extra layer of sauce for the kugel. It's like a match made in culinary heaven.

2. Cholent

Cholent is another Jewish classic that sits well beside kugel. This slow-cooked stew usually features meat, potatoes, and beans. It has a hearty, homey feel that makes it a great companion to kugel. The flavors are bold but not overpowering, allowing both dishes to shine.

3. Shakshuka

Shakshuka brings a pop of color and a burst of flavor to the table. This dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce brings a different texture and spiciness that complements the creaminess of kugel nicely. It's a combination that promises not to bore your taste buds.

4. Caesar Salad

For something lighter, a Caesar salad is a good option. The crispness of the lettuce and the tangy dressing bring a refreshing contrast to the dense, creamy noodle kugel. Plus, the added crunch of croutons adds a nice textural variety to the meal.

5. Chicken Soup

Good ol' chicken soup is more than just soul food. The light broth and tender pieces of chicken provide a palate-cleansing effect when eaten alongside kugel. It's comforting, it's classic, and it's a must-try combo.

6. Gefilte Fish

A staple at many Jewish feasts, gefilte fish is a dish made of ground fish that's been boiled or baked. It has a mild, almost sweet flavor that works surprisingly well with kugel. Pair it with some horseradish sauce, and you're in for a treat.

7. Zucchini Fritters

These fritters bring a bit of crunch and greens to your kugel. Made from grated zucchini, herbs, and sometimes a bit of cheese, they are lightly fried to perfection. They offer a different flavor profile and add some veggies to the meal without overshadowing the kugel.

8. Applesauce

For a touch of sweetness, try applesauce. Yes, it's simple, but the natural sweetness and smooth texture of applesauce can serve as a delightful contrast to the savory kugel. A spoonful of applesauce between bites of kugel can bring a new layer of flavor to your meal.

9. Cucumber Salad

A cucumber salad offers a crisp, refreshing bite that can be a real game-changer when paired with noodle kugel. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, maybe with a sprinkle of dill, it brings a fresh element to the meal. Plus, it's super easy to whip up at the last minute.

10. Pickled Beets

Pickled beets bring both color and zing to the table. Their earthy sweetness and tangy brine offer a nice counterpoint to the creamy, savory kugel. It's like a little flavor adventure in each bite.

11. Tzatziki Sauce

For a burst of cool, creamy goodness, serve some tzatziki on the side. The cucumber and mint in the tzatziki offer a fresh contrast to the kugel's richness. It's a versatile side that can also act as a delightful dip.

12. Potato Latkes

If you can't get enough of potato goodness, try adding some potato latkes to your kugel meal. Though they're both potato-based, latkes offer a crispy contrast to kugel's softer texture. Dip them in some sour cream or applesauce for an extra layer of flavor.

13. Roast Vegetables

Roast vegetables are always a welcome sight on any dining table. Carrots, parsnips, and maybe even some sweet potatoes provide not only vibrant colors but also varying textures and flavors that make the meal more exciting.

14. Matzo Ball Soup

Another Jewish classic, matzo ball soup brings its own unique texture and flavor to the meal. The fluffy matzo balls and savory chicken broth add a different kind of comfort to the mix. It's a beloved dish that feels right at home next to kugel.

15. Coleslaw

Last but not least, coleslaw brings a tangy crunch to the table. Whether you like it creamy or prefer a vinegar-based dressing, coleslaw adds a refreshing bite that pairs wonderfully with kugel. Plus, it's another quick and easy side to prepare.

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