Traditional German Potato Salad 🥔🇩🇪

This warm and tangy German Potato Salad is a delightful twist on the classic side dish! It's perfect for summer barbecues or as a comforting side during colder months. Unlike its American counterpart, this version is vinegar-based and features crispy bacon and fresh herbs, making it a savory and satisfying addition to any meal.

Pair it with grilled sausages or roasted chicken for a true taste of Germany! 🍽️

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 pounds of small waxy potatoes (like red or Yukon gold)
• 4 slices of crispy bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup of red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup of chopped chives

For the dressing

• 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Begin by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

2. While the potatoes are cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, keeping the drippings in the skillet.

3. In the same skillet, add the diced red onion to the bacon drippings and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.

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

🥔 Use small potatoes for the best results, as they hold their shape better in the salad and absorb the dressing beautifully.

6. Pour the warm onion and drippings over the potato slices, then drizzle the vinaigrette on top. Toss gently to coat the potatoes without breaking them apart.

7. Add the crispy bacon, parsley, and chives, then give everything a light toss again to combine.

8. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

🍽️ For added depth of flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to soak into the potatoes.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and substitute with olive oil for a lighter taste. Smoked paprika can be added for a depth of flavor. 🌱
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist that enhances the tanginess of the salad. 🔥
• Herb-Heavy: Experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon to give it a unique twist. Each herb adds its own distinctive flavor! 🌿
• High altitude: Cooking times may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the potatoes to avoid overcooking them.

This German Potato Salad is sure to please! It's a hearty option that brings the warmth and charm of traditional German cuisine to your table. Guten Appetit! 💚