This easy German potato salad is a warm, tangy dish made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tasty vinegar dressing. It’s a hearty side that pairs well with meats!
Whenever I make this, the aroma from the bacon gets everyone excited. I like to serve it alongside sausages for a fun meal. You might want to keep extra on hand; it disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use small red or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, fingerling potatoes work well too, providing a unique shape.
Bacon: Traditional recipes call for crispy bacon for its salty crunch. If you need a vegetarian option, you can use smoked tempeh or omit it altogether and add some liquid smoke for flavor.
Onion: A medium yellow onion gives a nice sweetness. If you’re sensitive to onions, you can skip them or use green onions instead for a milder taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives the salad its tanginess. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or lemon juice can be good substitutes, but adjust for taste.
How Do I Ensure the Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes just right can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by cooking them in cold water – this helps them heat evenly.
- Simmer them gently. Boiling too hard can lead to overcooked, mushy potatoes.
- Check for doneness by poking with a fork; they should be tender, but not falling apart.
- After draining, let them cool slightly before slicing to keep them intact.
With these tips and ingredient notes, you’ll make a flavorful German potato salad that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking! 😊
Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds small red or Yukon gold potatoes
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful German potato salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes washing, boiling the potatoes, cooking the bacon, and preparing the dressing. It’s quick enough for a weeknight side dish but impressive enough for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Then, place them in a large pot and cover with cold water, leaving about an inch above the potatoes. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a bit.
2. Slicing the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, decide if you’d like to peel them or leave the skins on for extra texture. Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds or bite-sized chunks, and set them aside.
3. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon slices and place them on paper towels to drain. When they’ve cooled a bit, crumble them and set aside, but be sure to leave the tasty bacon drippings in the skillet—you’ll need that flavor!
4. Sautéing the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the hot bacon drippings in the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. They should smell amazing!
5. Making the Dressing:
Next, stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and keep cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the dressing thickens slightly. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Combining Ingredients:
Place your warm potato slices into a large bowl. Now, pour the hot dressing and sautéed onions over the potatoes. Gently toss everything to combine; this allows the potatoes to soak up all that delicious flavor!
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the crumbled bacon, and if you like, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a nice fresh finish. Give it a little taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serving:
Serve the German potato salad warm or let it cool to room temperature. It’s a fantastic side for sausages, pork, or any grilled meats. Enjoy every bite of this classic dish!
Enjoy this classic tangy and savory German potato salad!
FAQ About Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While small red or Yukon gold potatoes are traditional, you can use other waxy potatoes like fingerlings or even baby potatoes for a different texture. Just be sure they’re similar in size for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked tempeh or diced mushrooms sautéed in oil for a similar smoky flavor. You can also simply omit the bacon—just adjust the seasoning to taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s delicious at room temperature, too!
Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance! Just follow all the steps, but wait to add the bacon until you’re ready to serve. This way, it will stay nice and crispy! Just toss everything together right before serving.
