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German Potato Salad

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Serves:

8-10 Servings

About the Recipe

I love a good potato salad. Pefect for the BBQ season ahead of us. Classic German potato salad, known as "Kartoffelsalat," is a beloved dish that transcends borders, finding its place not only in German cuisine but also in Swiss culinary traditions. This hearty and flavorful salad showcases the versatility and deliciousness of potatoes. Introduced to the area in the 18th century, potatoes quickly became a reliable and abundant crop, providing sustenance during lean times and serving as a versatile ingredient for countless recipes (think Rosti, Kartoffelwähe, Gratin Dauphinois, Älplermagronen (Alpine Macaroni) and Raclette). In both Germany and Switzerland, the principles of traditional cuisine emphasize simplicity, wholesomeness, and robust flavors. This salad epitomizes these principles with its combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, tangy vinegar, and savory onions. This delightful medley of flavors and textures creates a dish that is as comforting as it is satisfying. Furthermore, potato salad's adaptability makes it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including sausages, bread, schnitzel, and more. Its ability to complement and enhance the flavors of other foods has cemented its place on tables across both countries, whether at family dinners, festive celebrations, or casual gatherings. In Switzerland, where German influences are prevalent, Swiss potato salad shares many similarities with its German counterpart. Often served warm with a vinegar-based dressing, Swiss potato salad boasts its own regional variations, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of the country. Whether enjoyed alongside grilled sausages at a summer barbecue or paired with hearty bread and schnitzel during a cozy winter meal, German and Swiss potato salads continue to be cherished classics. Their enduring popularity speaks to their timeless appeal and their ability to bring people together over a shared love of delicious food.
  • Bold, Tangy Flavor: The warm vinegar-based dressing adds a delicious tang that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes, creating a uniquely flavorful salad.

  • Perfect for Any Season: This salad can be enjoyed warm in the cooler months or at room temperature during summer barbecues, making it a year-round favorite.

  • Hearty and Satisfying: With the addition of bacon and onions, this salad is filling enough to serve as a main or a hearty side dish.

  • Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with pantry staples like vinegar, mustard, and potatoes, this salad offers impressive flavor with minimal ingredients.

  • Ideal for Gatherings: Its bold flavors and easy preparation make it an excellent choice for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, where it’s sure to stand out.

  • Great Make-Ahead Dish: This salad can be prepared ahead and reheated before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and making it a convenient dish for busy days.

What You'll Love

Ingredients

For the salad:

  • 2 pounds red potatoes

  • 6 slices bacon

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1/2 cup chopped cornichons

  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish


Optional Additions

  • 4 hard boiled eggs

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (for a creamier dressing)

Preparation


Potato Salad - Recipe - Poetic Road - Food Photography Studio

  1. Wash the potatoes and place them in a large pot. Cover them with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and let cool slightly.

  2. While the potatoes are cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

  3. In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard (for a creamier dressing, add mayonnaise).

  5. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them into rounds or cubes and place them in a large bowl.

  6. Pour the vinegar mixture over the warm potatoes. Add the cooked onions and crumbled bacon (if adding in hard boiled eggs, add them here the addition of eggs will also add a slight creaminess to the overall texture of this salad). Gently toss to combine, being careful not to break up the potatoes too much. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  7. Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Potato Salad - Recipe - Poetic Road - Food Photographer


Recipe Card

  • What’s the difference between German potato salad and traditional potato salad? German potato salad is typically made with a warm vinegar-based dressing instead of a mayonnaise-based one, giving it a tangy flavor. It also often includes bacon and onions for added richness.

  • Can I serve German potato salad cold? While traditionally served warm, German potato salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a versatile option for various occasions.

  • What type of potatoes work best for German potato salad? Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold hold their shape well and have a creamy texture, making them ideal for this salad. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they may break apart.

  • How long does German potato salad last? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if you prefer it warm.

  • Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely! Skip the bacon or substitute it with smoked paprika or a vegetarian bacon alternative for a similar smoky flavor.

FAQs

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