German Potato Salad is one of the most beloved dishes in German cuisine. Known for its distinct vinegar-based dressing and the addition of bacon, this warm and flavorful salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or hearty dinners. What sets German potato salad apart from other potato salads is its tangy, savory flavor that comes from the combination of vinegar, onions, and bacon drippings, making it a favorite among potato salad enthusiasts.
In this article, we’ll walk through a best-rated German potato salad recipe that has been praised for its authentic flavors, easy preparation, and the perfect balance of tanginess and richness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a regular side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients for the Best German Potato Salad
This recipe stays true to the traditional Southern German version of potato salad, which is served warm with a tangy vinegar dressing. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
- 6 slices of bacon (thick-cut is ideal for maximum flavor)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (you can substitute with vegetable broth if desired)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice (for an extra tangy kick)
- 2 teaspoons caraway seeds (for a unique German flavor)
- Chives (as an alternative to parsley for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make German Potato Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes whole with their skins on. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer the potatoes until they are just fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Be careful not to overcook them, as you want the potatoes to hold their shape when sliced.
- Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel the potatoes (if desired) and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or cubes.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- While the potatoes are cooling, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it is crispy and golden brown. This should take about 7–10 minutes.
- Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet, as you will use it to flavor the dressing.
- Crumble the bacon into small pieces once it has cooled.
Step 3: Make the Tangy Dressing
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and sugar. Cook the mixture for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently to combine all the flavors. This forms the tangy, savory dressing that coats the potatoes.
- Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more sugar at this stage.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Place the sliced or cubed potatoes in a large serving bowl. While the potatoes are still warm, pour the hot dressing over them. The warmth of the potatoes helps them absorb the flavors of the dressing.
- Gently toss the potatoes with the dressing to ensure they are evenly coated. Be careful not to break up the potatoes too much while mixing.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the potato salad and mix it in.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the potato salad with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve the German potato salad warm, as is traditional, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Why This Recipe is the Best Rated
This recipe consistently receives rave reviews because it hits all the right notes:
- Tangy and Savory Balance: The combination of apple cider vinegar and bacon fat creates a dressing that is both tangy and savory. A touch of sugar rounds out the flavor, providing just the right amount of sweetness to complement the acidic vinegar.
- Crispy Bacon: The bacon adds a delicious salty crunch to the salad, enhancing the overall texture and providing a smoky depth to the dish.
- Warm and Comforting: Serving the salad warm gives it a unique texture and flavor profile that’s comforting and perfect for cooler weather or hearty meals.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe can easily be modified to suit dietary preferences (such as using vegetable broth for a vegetarian version) or enhanced with additional ingredients like pickles or caraway seeds.
Serving Suggestions
German potato salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some popular ideas:
- With Grilled Sausages: This salad is the perfect side for grilled bratwurst or other German-style sausages. The tangy flavors balance the richness of the meat.
- Alongside Schnitzel: A classic pairing, German potato salad complements pork or chicken schnitzel beautifully.
- At Barbecues: Serve it at your next barbecue alongside grilled meats, burgers, or steaks for a crowd-pleasing side.
- With Roast Chicken: The acidity of the vinegar dressing cuts through the richness of roasted or grilled chicken, making it a perfect companion.
Tips for Perfect German Potato Salad
- Use Waxy Potatoes: For the best texture, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These hold their shape better when boiled and won’t fall apart when tossed with the dressing.
- Boil Potatoes Just Right: Be sure to boil the potatoes until they are just tender. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and won’t hold up well in the salad.
- Toss While Warm: Tossing the potatoes with the dressing while they are still warm ensures they absorb all the tangy flavors of the dressing.
- Bacon Fat for Flavor: The bacon drippings are a crucial component of the dressing. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the bacon fat with butter or olive oil for a similar richness.
- Season Generously: Be sure to taste the salad after adding the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt, pepper, or sugar can make a big difference.
Variations of German Potato Salad
While this recipe is the classic version, there are a few variations you can try:
- Vegetarian German Potato Salad: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra flavor by including sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika.
- Creamy German Potato Salad: If you prefer a creamy dressing, try adding a spoonful of sour cream or mayonnaise to the dressing. This is closer to the Northern German style of potato salad.
- Pickle-Infused: Add some diced pickles or a tablespoon of pickle juice to the dressing for an extra tangy flavor.
- Caraway Seed Twist: For a unique regional flavor, sprinkle in some caraway seeds when preparing the dressing.
Conclusion
This best-rated German potato salad recipe is a true winner, offering a delicious combination of tangy, savory, and smoky flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a picnic, or a holiday gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the boldness of the flavors makes this dish a standout.
By following the easy steps in this guide, you can make the perfect German potato salad that’s sure to become a family favorite.
