German potato salad is a traditional German side dish that is commonly served alongside sausages, schnitzel, and other classic German fare. It’s made from just a handful of simple ingredients but packs a flavorful punch. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this staple German salad.
Potatoes
The star of German potato salad is, unsurprisingly, potatoes. Traditionally, waxy yellow potatoes like Yukon Gold or German Butterball are used. The waxy texture of these varieties holds up well when boiled and sliced, without falling apart. Russet potatoes are sometimes used as well, but their fluffy texture doesn’t quite have the same bite. The potatoes are peeled and boiled until just tender but not mushy.
Onion
Onion lends savory depth and crunch to German potato salad. Yellow onions are most common, but red or white onions can also be used. The onions are diced or thinly sliced and added raw to the cooked potato mixture, so they maintain their crisp texture.
Vinegar
Vinegar gives German potato salad its characteristic tang. White wine vinegar or cider vinegar are traditional, but rice vinegar or champagne vinegar also work. The vinegar cuts through the starchiness of the potatoes and provides a bright counterpoint to the rich bacon or sausage often served alongside.
Bacon
Cured pork like bacon, ham, or smoked sausage gives German potato salad a smoky, meaty flavor. Traditionally, bacon is diced and cooked until crispy before being mixing in with the potatoes. Small chunks of cooked ham or smoked sausage can be used as well. Leaving out the meat makes for a vegetarian version.
Mustard
Mustard is what gives German potato salad its distinctive yellow color and zing. Dijon and yellow mustards are classic choices. The mustard is whisked together with the vinegar and oil or bacon fat to make the dressing.
Dairy
Dairy lends creaminess and richness to German potato salad. Sour cream or buttermilk are traditional choices. Mayonnaise or yogurt work too. The cool, creamy base balances the acidity of the vinegar.
Herbs
Herbs like dill, parsley, chives, or scallions add freshness and color to German potato salad. Chopped fresh herbs are commonly stirred in just before serving to keep their flavor and color vibrant.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and ground black pepper are added to taste. The salt balances and enhances the other flavors, while the pepper provides a little spike of heat.
Other Potential Ingredients
Some variations on German potato salad also include:
- Pickles – For extra tang and crunch
- Capers – For a briny, acidic bite
- Radishes – For color and peppery bite
- Bell peppers – For sweetness and crunch
- Hard boiled eggs – For protein and texture
The Basic Process
While recipes can vary, the basic process for making German potato salad is:
- Boil potatoes until just tender
- Make dressing by whisking together vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, and bacon fat or oil
- Toss hot potatoes with dressing to absorb flavors
- Add onions, bacon, and any other vegetables
- Once cooled, gently stir in dairy ingredient like sour cream
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Top with fresh herbs before serving
Serving and Storing
German potato salad is best served warm or at room temperature. It can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Add a splash of hot water or a minute in the microwave to reheat before serving if chilled. The flavors marry and develop overnight, making it even tastier on day two.
Variations
There are many regional variations on German potato salad across Germany, Austria, and beyond. Here are a few popular versions:
Southern German Potato Salad
Uses oil instead of bacon fat for dressing. Often includes bell pepper and pickles.
Austrian Potato Salad
Made with a vinegar and oil dressing. Typically contains onions, gherkins, and mustard.
Swabian Potato Salad
Uses broth instead of vinegar for a creamy dressing. Adds bacon and onions.
Bavarian Potato Salad
Contains both broth and vinegar. Uses salty, smoked pork belly.
American German Potato Salad
Americanized version with mayonnaise or Miracle Whip dressing. Onions, pickles, and bacon common.
Nutrition
One cup (220g) of German potato salad provides approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 |
| Fat | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 485mg |
As you can see, German potato salad is relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium due to ingredients like bacon and sour cream. It makes for a hearty, flavorful side dish but is best enjoyed in moderation.
Conclusion
With its simple ingredient list of potatoes, bacon, onions, and a tangy vinegar dressing, German potato salad is the perfect accompaniment to many traditional German dishes. It comes together easily but boasts bold, satisfying flavors. Regional variations such as those found in Bavaria and Austria put local spins on the classic. No matter how you make it, German potato salad is a cornerstone side dish for any German-style meal.