10 Must-Try Potato Snacks that Will Make You Want to Hug a Potato - A Foodie's Guide to the Versatile Veggie

I am a potato lover, through and through. From mashed to roasted, baked to fried, I simply can't get enough of this versatile veggie. And let's not even get started on potato snacks. Whether you're looking for something savory or sweet, there's a potato snack out there for everyone. In this blog post, I'll be sharing my top ten favorite potato snacks, along with cocktail pairings that will take your snacking game to the next level.

Potatoes have been a staple in human diets for centuries, and for good reason. Not only are they delicious, but they're also incredibly nutritious. They're a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, and they're low in fat and calories. Plus, they're so versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes and snacks.

In this guide, I'll take you on a journey through some of the best potato snacks out there. From classic favorites like French fries and potato chips, to more unique options like potato latkes and sweet potato donuts, there's something for every potato lover on this list. And trust me, you won't be able to resist the urge to make them all after reading this post.

So, without further ado, let's dive into the top ten potato snacks that will make you want to hug a potato!

Snack #1: Crispy Baked Potato Wedges

These crispy baked potato wedges are the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They're made with russet potatoes, which are sliced into wedges and then coated in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings. They're then baked in the oven until golden brown and crispy. They're the perfect side dish for burgers and sandwiches, or even as a snack on their own.

Cocktail pairing: Classic Bloody Mary

A classic Bloody Mary is the perfect pairing for these crispy baked potato wedges. The spicy tomato-based drink is the perfect balance to the salty and crispy potatoes. The drink is typically made with tomato juice, vodka, and a variety of spices and seasonings, including Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and tabasco sauce. Rim the glass with celery salt for added flavor.

Snack #2: Sweet Potato Fries with Maple Sriracha Aioli

Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to traditional French fries, and these sweet potato fries with maple sriracha aioli are sure to be a hit. They're made with sweet potatoes, which are sliced into fries, and then coated in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper. They're then baked in the oven until golden brown and crispy. The aioli is made with mayo, sriracha, and maple syrup for a sweet and spicy kick.

Cocktail pairing: Bourbon Sweet Potato Cocktail

This sweet and savory cocktail pairs perfectly with the sweet potato fries. The drink is made with bourbon, sweet potato puree, and maple syrup, topped with a dash of cinnamon. The flavors of the sweet potato and maple syrup in the cocktail complement the sweetness of the sweet potato fries and the spiciness of the aioli.

Snack #3: Potato Latkes with Apple Sauce and Sour Cream

Potato latkes are a classic Jewish snack, and these latkes are made with grated potatoes, onions, and flour, and then fried until crispy. They're served with a side of homemade apple sauce and sour cream. The latkes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the sweet and tangy apple sauce and creamy sour cream provide the perfect balance of flavors.

Cocktail pairing: Vodka-Infused Cucumber Lemonade

This refreshing cocktail is the perfect pairing for the potato latkes. The drink is made with vodka infused with cucumber, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. The cucumber in the vodka adds a refreshing and light flavor, while the lemon provides a nice acidity that cuts through the richness of the latkes.

Snack #4: Cheesy Potato Skins

These cheesy potato skins are loaded with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. They're made by scooping out the insides of baked potatoes, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin. The skins are then filled with cheese, bacon, and green onions, and then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These are a popular appetizer and perfect for parties.

Cocktail pairing: Irish Coffee

This classic cocktail pairs perfectly with the cheesy and savory potato skins. The drink is made with strong brewed coffee, Irish whiskey, and a dollop of whipped cream. The warmth and richness of the Irish whiskey and coffee complement the cheese and bacon in the potato skins, making for a comforting and satisfying pairing.

Snack #5: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish. They're made by roasting whole heads of garlic in the oven until they're soft and caramelized. The roasted garlic is then mashed into the potatoes along with butter, milk, and salt. These mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and full of garlic flavor.

Cocktail pairing: White Wine and Garlic Cocktail

This unique cocktail is made with white wine, garlic-infused simple syrup, and a splash of lemon juice. The flavors of the garlic and white wine complement each other and complement the garlic flavor in the mashed potatoes. This pairing is perfect for a fancy dinner party.

Snack #6: Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Potato gnocchi are a classic Italian dish, and these gnocchi are made with grated potatoes, flour, and eggs. They're then boiled and served with a sage butter sauce. The gnocchi are pillowy and soft, while the sage butter sauce adds a rich and savory flavor.

Cocktail pairing: Prosecco with Sage Leaves

This simple yet elegant cocktail is made with Prosecco and fresh sage leaves. The bubbles in the Prosecco complement the light and airy texture of the gnocchi, while the sage adds a refreshing herbaceous flavor that complements the sage butter sauce.

Snack #7: Potato Chip Nachos

These potato chip nachos are a fun and unexpected twist on traditional nachos. They're made by layering potato chips, cheese, and your choice of toppings, and then baking in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These are perfect for game day or as a fun snack for a party.

Cocktail pairing: Margarita with a Potato Chip Rim

This classic margarita is made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, and rimmed with crushed potato chips for a fun and unexpected twist. The saltiness of the potato chips complement the acidity of the lime and the sweetness of the orange liqueur, making for a delicious and satisfying pairing.

Snack #8: Potato Salad with Bacon and Egg

This potato salad is a classic summer dish, and it's made with boiled potatoes, bacon, eggs, mayo, and your choice of seasonings. It's a creamy and comforting side dish that's perfect for picnics and BBQs.

Cocktail pairing: Bourbon Peach Sweet Tea

This cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day. It's made with bourbon, sweet tea, and peach puree. The sweetness of the tea and peach complement the smokiness of the bacon and richness of the egg.

Snack #9: Potato Croquettes with Garlic Aioli

These potato croquettes are a crispy and delicious snack. They're made with mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs, and then breaded and fried until golden brown. They're served with a side of garlic aioli for dipping. They are perfect for a party or as a snack on the go.

Cocktail pairing: Belgian Beer and Garlic Aioli

This pairing is perfect for a casual get-together with friends. The Belgian beer is a great match for the crispy croquettes, while the garlic aioli adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the beer perfectly.

Snack #10: Potato and Chorizo Empanadas

These empanadas are a delicious and hearty snack. They're made with a mixture of mashed potatoes, chorizo, onions, and spices, wrapped in a flaky pastry dough. They're then fried or baked until golden brown. They are perfect for a party or as a snack on the go.

Cocktail pairing: Pisco Sour

This classic South American cocktail is made with pisco, lime juice, sugar, and egg whites. The acidity and sweetness of the cocktail complement the rich and savory flavors of the empanadas. The pisco sour is a great match for the empanadas.

Potatoes are truly the king of vegetables, and these potato snacks are the proof. From classic favorites like French fries and potato chips, to more unique options like potato latkes and sweet potato donuts, there's something for every potato lover on this list. And with these cocktail pairings, your snacking game will be taken to the next level. Trust me, after trying these snacks, you'll be craving potatoes for days. So, go ahead and hug a potato, because you'll be in good company. Happy snacking!