Recipe of the Week: Authentic German Potato Salad

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As a food enthusiast and an avid traveler, I’ve had the privilege of exploring culinary treasures from around the world. However, there’s something about the classics that always tugs at my heartstrings. One dish that holds a special place in my culinary journey is the Authentic German Potato Salad. I first encountered this mouthwatering creation during my high school days, and it has remained a personal favorite ever since.

The combination of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, tangy vinegar, and a hint of sweetness makes this dish a true comfort food classic. Today, I’m excited to share with you this authentic German Potato Salad recipe. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for any occasion. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

  • 3 cups diced peeled potatoes
  • 4 slices bacon
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • ¼ cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 ½ tablespoons white sugar, or more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

  1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by at least 1 to 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork, approximately 10 minutes.
  2. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

  1. While the potatoes are cooking, take your bacon slices and place them in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the bacon until it becomes beautifully browned and crisp, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to turn the bacon as needed for even cooking.
  2. Transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and allow it to cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, crumble it into delicious, savory bits. Don’t forget to save the bacon grease in the skillet; we’re going to use it for extra flavor!

Step 3: Saute the Onions and Create the Dressing

  1. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, cook the diced onion over medium heat until it becomes wonderfully browned and fragrant, which typically takes about 6 to 8 minutes.
  2. Now, add the white vinegar, white sugar, water, salt, and ground black pepper to the pan. Give it a good stir, and let it come to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Combine and Heat

  1. Once the mixture is boiling, add the cooked potatoes and half of the crumbled bacon to the skillet. Gently stir everything together until the potato salad is heated through, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Transfer your warm and flavorful German Potato Salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon over the top like delicious confetti. For a final touch of freshness, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley.
  2. Serve your Authentic German Potato Salad immediately and watch it disappear in no time!

Pro Tips:

  • The original recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of sugar, but some reviewers prefer it less sweet. I recommend starting with 1 1/2 tablespoons and adding more to taste.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 183
  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 796mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Total Sugars: 11g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Vitamin C: 10mg
  • Calcium: 16mg
  • Iron: 1mg
  • Potassium: 426mg

The Authentic German Potato Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through time and taste. This classic recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement a hearty meal or simply want to savor the taste of tradition, this potato salad is a winner. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s rich in history and flavor. Enjoy every bite!

Your feedback is always encouraged!