Authentic German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat) 🇩🇪

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting an authentic German Potato Salad, you know that it’s a game-changer. Unlike the creamy, mayonnaise-based versions, this Kartoffelsalat is served warm and has a tangy, vinegar-based dressing that perfectly complements the soft, tender potatoes. It’s the perfect side dish for any gathering, whether it’s a barbecue, holiday dinner, or just a cozy meal at home. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love Authentic German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat)

This German Potato Salad isn’t just another potato salad—it’s a flavorful experience! Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Tangy and Savory: The combination of vinegar, mustard, and rich broth creates a tangy dressing that’s savory and just right. It’s not overly creamy, which allows the potatoes to shine.
• Warm and Comforting: Served warm, this salad is the perfect comfort food. It’s hearty yet light, making it the ideal addition to any meal.
• Versatile: It pairs beautifully with sausages, schnitzels, grilled meats, or even on its own. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this salad fits the bill.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples—potatoes, mustard, vinegar, and onions—this dish delivers deep, rich flavors that everyone will love.
• Family Tradition: In Germany, this dish is often passed down from generation to generation, and it’s loved for its timeless, homey appeal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this authentic German Potato Salad:

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These waxy potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture when cooked.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor to the salad. You can even save a bit of the bacon fat to enhance the dressing.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a nice savory bite to balance the tangy dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The star of the dressing, adding that signature tangy flavor that sets German potato salad apart.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a bit of sharpness and depth to the dressing. It’s the perfect complement to the vinegar.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Adds richness to the dressing and makes it savory and flavorful.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is used for garnish, adding a touch of freshness and color to the salad.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making this authentic German Potato Salad is a simple process, but the result is packed with flavor:

• Cook the Potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and cook until they’re tender but firm (about 10-15 minutes). Drain them and let them cool slightly. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds.
• Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes are cooking, chop the bacon into small pieces and cook it in a pan until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but leave some of the bacon fat in the pan.
• Make the Dressing: In the same pan with the bacon fat, sauté the chopped onions until soft (about 2 minutes). Then, add the vinegar, Dijon mustard, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
• Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm potatoes with the hot dressing. Gently toss the potatoes to coat them with the dressing. This allows the potatoes to absorb all the flavor. Add the crispy bacon and chopped parsley, and toss again.
• Serve Warm: Serve the potato salad warm, and enjoy the comforting, tangy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 220

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Authentic German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat)

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Grilled Meats: Serve alongside bratwurst, schnitzels, or grilled chicken for an authentic German meal.
• Barbecue Favorites: This potato salad makes the perfect side dish for a barbecue or cookout, pairing wonderfully with burgers and grilled sausages.
• Picnics and Potlucks: It’s an ideal salad to take along to gatherings, as it holds up well and is even better when served warm or at room temperature.
• As a Light Main: Serve it on its own for a light but filling meal, topped with extra bacon and parsley for added flavor.

Presentation matters too! Serve the salad in a beautiful bowl and garnish with a bit more fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make your Kartoffelsalat even more authentic and delicious:

• Use the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes, like Yukon Golds, are essential in this recipe. They hold their shape better and give the salad that perfect texture.
• Make It Ahead: You can make this salad a few hours in advance and let it sit at room temperature for a while to let the flavors meld.
• Bacon Fat: If you like extra flavor, don’t shy away from using the bacon fat in the dressing—it adds a rich, savory undertone that’s signature to German potato salad.
• Customize with Pickles: Some German potato salads include pickles or relish for added tang and crunch. Feel free to experiment with a little chopped dill pickle if you’re feeling adventurous!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this potato salad in advance?
A1: Yes! This potato salad is great made ahead of time. Let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently before serving.

Q2: Can I use another type of potato?
A2: While Yukon Golds are the most traditional, you can also use other waxy potatoes like red potatoes. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets as they won’t hold up as well in the salad.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A3: Yes! Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables?
A4: Some variations of German potato salad include celery, pickles, or even boiled eggs. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to make it your own!

Q5: Can I make this recipe without mustard?
A5: While mustard adds a nice sharpness, you can leave it out if you prefer a more neutral dressing. You could add a bit of honey or sugar if you want to balance out the vinegar.

Q6: Can I use sour cream instead of broth for the dressing?
A6: Traditional German potato salad uses a broth-based dressing, but if you want a creamier texture, you can use sour cream in place of the broth.

Q7: Can I make this potato salad with raw onions instead of cooked?
A7: Raw onions can be too sharp for some, but if you love them, you can use them. Just chop them finely or soak them in water for 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.

Q8: How do I store leftover German potato salad?
A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Q9: Can I make this potato salad without bacon fat?
A9: Yes! You can use olive oil or butter if you prefer a lighter version without the bacon fat.

Q10: Can I freeze German potato salad?
A10: It’s not recommended to freeze potato salad as the potatoes may change in texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Conclusion

This authentic German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat) is a must-try if you want a warm, tangy, and hearty side dish that will win everyone over. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or making a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and has that authentic German touch that’ll leave you coming back for more. Enjoy!

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