This Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad is warm, tangy, and oh-so-comforting! Made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a simple vinegar dressing, it hits the spot.
It’s perfect for BBQs or any gathering! The best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser, and who can resist bacon? I always save some for second helpings—just in case! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using small red or yellow potatoes for their creamy texture. If they’re not available, you can use Yukon Golds, which are also fantastic and flavorful.
Bacon: The crispiness of bacon adds a great touch. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could substitute with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor without the meat.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is key for the tangy taste. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or even rice vinegar can work well. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon provides a mild heat and depth. However, yellow mustard is an acceptable substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Potatoes?
Cooking the potatoes properly is crucial, so here are some helpful tips:
- Start with cold water in the pot to ensure even cooking.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart. Around 15-20 minutes usually does the trick.
- Slice the potatoes while they are still warm. This helps them absorb the dressing better.
Follow these tips and you’ll have a potato salad that’s wonderfully warm and bursting with flavors—perfect for any occasion!
Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds small red or yellow potatoes
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German Potato Salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 20 minutes on cooking the potatoes and bacon, with an additional 10 minutes for mixing everything together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Let the potatoes cook until they are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the potatoes are still warm, slice them into 1/4-inch thick pieces and set them aside. This warm slicing helps the potatoes absorb the dressing better later on!
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once it’s cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet, crumble it, and set it aside while leaving the bacon fat in the skillet. This fat adds great flavor to the salad!
4. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes softened and translucent, taking about 3-4 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid burning!
5. Make the Dressing:
Next, stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and Dijon mustard into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir well to combine all the flavors!
6. Combine at the Skillet:
Add the sliced warm potatoes to the skillet with the dressing. Gently toss them to coat in the dressing, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Add the Bacon:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled bacon. Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect flavor boost!
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely presentation, garnish your German Potato Salad with fresh chopped parsley if desired. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile!
Enjoy your classic, tangy, and comforting German Potato Salad! It’s bound to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While small red or yellow potatoes are traditional, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture. Just make sure they are similar in size for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it warm again, simply reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can This Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge after mixing, and give it a gentle toss before serving. This can enhance the flavors even more!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke in the dressing for that smoky flavor. Additionally, sautéed mushrooms can add a nice earthy taste!
