Popovers are a delicious and versatile bread that can be served with a variety of main dishes. Whether you’re looking for a classic combination or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best main dishes to serve with popovers, from traditional favorites to modern twists.
Classic Combinations
When it comes to pairing main dishes with popovers, there are a few classic combinations that are hard to beat. These tried-and-true pairings are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Roast Beef and Popovers
One of the most iconic popover pairings is roast beef. There’s something about the tender, juicy beef and the crispy, buttery popover that just goes together perfectly. Whether you’re serving a classic prime rib or a more modern take on the dish, popovers are the perfect accompaniment.
A Traditional Recipe
If you’re looking to try this classic combination at home, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) prime rib roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups popovers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Season the prime rib with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the prime rib until browned on all sides, then transfer to the oven.
- Roast the prime rib for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- While the prime rib is cooking, prepare the popovers according to the recipe or package instructions.
- Serve the prime rib with the popovers and a side of beef broth for dipping.
Modern Twists
While classic combinations are always a hit, it’s also fun to experiment with new and exciting pairings. Here are a few modern twists to try:
Popovers and Pan-Seared Chicken
Pan-seared chicken is a staple of modern cuisine, and it pairs perfectly with popovers. The crispy exterior and juicy interior of the chicken complement the crispy, buttery popover beautifully.
A Simple Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to try at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups popovers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Sear the chicken until browned on both sides and cooked through.
- Serve the chicken with the popovers and a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Popovers and Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a healthy and delicious option that pairs perfectly with popovers. The rich, buttery flavor of the popover complements the delicate flavor of the salmon beautifully.
A Healthy Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to try at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cups popovers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve the salmon with the popovers and a side of your favorite steamed vegetables.
Breakfast and Brunch Options
Popovers aren’t just for dinner – they’re also a great option for breakfast and brunch. Here are a few ideas to try:
Popovers and Eggs Benedict
Eggs benedict is a classic breakfast dish that pairs perfectly with popovers. The crispy, buttery popover complements the rich, eggy flavor of the dish beautifully.
A Decadent Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to try at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs, poached
- 4 Canadian bacon slices, toasted
- 1 cup hollandaise sauce
- 2 cups popovers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Toast the Canadian bacon until crispy.
- Poach the eggs until cooked through.
- Assemble the eggs benedict by placing a toasted Canadian bacon slice on top of a popover, followed by a poached egg and a spoonful of hollandaise sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Popovers and Breakfast Strata
Breakfast strata is a hearty, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with popovers. The crispy, buttery popover complements the rich, eggy flavor of the strata beautifully.
A Hearty Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to try at home:
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced bread
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 cups popovers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add the diced bread, ham, and cheese to the bowl and stir until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
- Serve the strata with the popovers and a side of your favorite fruit or hash browns.
Conclusion
Popovers are a delicious and versatile bread that can be served with a variety of main dishes. Whether you’re looking for a classic combination or something new and exciting, we hope this article has given you some inspiration for your next meal. From roast beef to pan-seared chicken to baked salmon, there are countless options to try. So go ahead, get creative, and find your new favorite pairing!
What are popovers and how do they differ from other types of bread?
Popovers are a type of light and airy bread that is similar to Yorkshire pudding. They are made with a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk, and are cooked in a hot oven until puffed and golden brown. Unlike other types of bread, popovers do not require yeast to rise, and instead rely on the steam created by the hot oven to give them their characteristic puff.
One of the key differences between popovers and other types of bread is their texture. While other breads can be dense and heavy, popovers are light and airy, with a delicate crust that gives way to a soft and tender interior. This makes them a great choice for serving alongside a variety of main dishes, as they can help to soak up juices and sauces without becoming too heavy or overpowering.
What are some popular main dishes to serve with popovers?
There are many delicious main dishes that can be served with popovers, depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. Some popular options include roasted meats such as beef or lamb, stews and casseroles, and even seafood dishes like fish or shrimp. Popovers can also be served alongside vegetarian options like vegetable stir-fries or pasta dishes.
When choosing a main dish to serve with popovers, consider the flavors and textures that will complement the bread. For example, a hearty beef stew with a rich and savory broth would pair perfectly with the light and airy texture of popovers. On the other hand, a delicate fish dish might be better paired with a lighter and more subtle flavor.
How do I choose the right type of popover to serve with my main dish?
When choosing the right type of popover to serve with your main dish, consider the flavors and ingredients used in the dish. For example, if you are serving a savory meat dish, you might choose a classic popover recipe with a simple seasoning of salt and pepper. On the other hand, if you are serving a sweet dish like a fruit tart, you might choose a popover recipe with a sweeter flavor profile.
Another factor to consider is the texture of the popover. If you are serving a dish with a lot of sauce or gravy, you might choose a popover recipe that is a bit more dense and sturdy, to help soak up the liquid. On the other hand, if you are serving a dish with a lighter sauce, you might choose a popover recipe that is lighter and airier.
Can I make popovers ahead of time and reheat them?
Yes, you can make popovers ahead of time and reheat them. In fact, this is a great way to save time and effort when serving a large group of people. Simply bake the popovers as directed, then allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can store the popovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
To reheat the popovers, simply place them in a hot oven (around 400°F) for 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy. You can also reheat popovers in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause them to become tough and dry.
How do I serve popovers with my main dish?
There are many ways to serve popovers with your main dish, depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. One popular way to serve popovers is to place them alongside the main dish on a platter or individual plate. This allows each guest to help themselves to a popover and enjoy it alongside their meal.
Another way to serve popovers is to use them as a base for a more composed dish. For example, you might top a popover with a slice of roasted meat, a spoonful of mashed potatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This can add a fun and creative element to your meal, and make it feel more special and occasion-worthy.
Can I customize my popovers with different flavors and ingredients?
Yes, you can customize your popovers with different flavors and ingredients to suit your tastes and preferences. Some popular ways to customize popovers include adding herbs and spices to the batter, using different types of cheese or nuts, or even adding a bit of sweetness with sugar or honey.
When customizing your popovers, be sure to consider the flavors and ingredients used in your main dish. For example, if you are serving a savory meat dish, you might choose to add a bit of rosemary or thyme to the popover batter to complement the flavors of the meat. On the other hand, if you are serving a sweet dish, you might choose to add a bit of sugar or cinnamon to the batter to create a sweeter flavor profile.
Are popovers a good choice for a special occasion or holiday meal?
Yes, popovers can be a great choice for a special occasion or holiday meal. They are a bit more elegant and sophisticated than other types of bread, and can add a touch of warmth and hospitality to your table. Plus, they are relatively easy to make and can be customized with a variety of flavors and ingredients to suit your tastes and preferences.
When serving popovers at a special occasion or holiday meal, consider adding a few extra touches to make the experience feel more special. For example, you might serve the popovers in a decorative basket or on a fancy platter, or offer a variety of toppings or spreads to complement the bread. This can help to create a memorable and enjoyable dining experience for your guests.