Authentic German Potato Salad with Crispy Bacon
Experience the traditional flavors of Germany with this delightful vinegar-based potato salad, often enjoyed with Wiener Schnitzel. This recipe features tender potatoes infused with the rich, smoky taste of bacon, complemented by the bite of green onions and fresh chives. Perfectly balanced with a tangy dressing, this salad can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or as a hearty side dish at barbecues, this authentic German delight will surely impress your guests.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
potatoes
5 lbs (unpeeled)
smoked bacon
1/2 cup (diced)
vegetable oil
1/2 cup (none)
white vinegar
3 tablespoons (preferably mild vinegar such as white wine vinegar or herb vinegar)
sugar
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
green onion
3/4 cup (sliced)
chives
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by placing unpeeled potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold salted water and bring to a gentle boil.
2
Cook the potatoes until they are tender but still firm to the bite, ensuring not to overcook them.
3
Once cooked, carefully drain the boiling water and let the potatoes cool until manageable. For convenience, consider refrigerating the drained, unpeeled potatoes overnight.
4
After cooling, peel the potatoes and slice them into uniform pieces, placing them in a large mixing bowl.
5
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced smoked bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown, allowing the fat to render out. Do not drain the skillet.
6
Remove the skillet from heat and promptly add vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the bacon drippings, stirring to combine.
7
Pour the warm dressing over the sliced potatoes in the bowl, gently tossing to coat all pieces evenly.
8
Add the sliced green onions and chopped chives to the potato mixture. Toss gently once more to incorporate all ingredients.
9
Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as desired. Serve the potato salad warm or let it cool in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is authentic German potato salad?
Authentic German potato salad is a traditional vinegar-based dish featuring tender potatoes, smoky bacon, green onions, and fresh chives, often served warm or cold.
What kind of dressing is used in this recipe?
The dressing is a tangy blend of rendered bacon drippings, vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Should the potatoes be peeled before boiling?
No, the recipe recommends boiling the potatoes unpeeled and then peeling them once they have cooled.
Can I make German potato salad in advance?
Yes, you can boil the potatoes and refrigerate them overnight before peeling and slicing, and the salad itself can be served cold later.
Is this potato salad served warm or cold?
This versatile salad can be enjoyed either warm or cold depending on your preference.
What type of vinegar should I use?
White vinegar is recommended, preferably a mild version like white wine vinegar or herb vinegar.
Do I need to drain the bacon fat?
No, do not drain the skillet; the bacon fat is essential for creating the rich flavor of the dressing.
What is the best way to cook the potatoes?
Place unpeeled potatoes in cold salted water, bring to a boil, and cook until they are tender but still firm.
What makes the bacon crispy in this recipe?
Diced smoked bacon is sautéed over medium heat until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
What main dishes pair well with this salad?
It is traditionally served with Wiener Schnitzel, but it also pairs perfectly with barbecued meats and roasts.
How many potatoes do I need?
The recipe calls for 5 lbs of potatoes.
Is there sugar in German potato salad?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of sugar is added to the dressing to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The salad is seasoned with fresh chopped chives and sliced green onions.
Can I use a different oil than vegetable oil?
While vegetable oil is specified for its neutral flavor, you could use a light olive oil if preferred.
How do I prevent the potatoes from falling apart?
Ensure you do not overcook them during the boiling process; they should be firm to the bite.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
No, this authentic version includes smoked bacon.
How much bacon is required?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of diced smoked bacon.
Should I add the dressing while it is hot?
Yes, the warm dressing should be poured over the sliced potatoes to help them absorb the flavors.
Is this salad suitable for picnics?
Yes, because it is vinegar-based rather than mayonnaise-based, it is an ideal choice for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
How do I slice the potatoes?
After peeling the cooked and cooled potatoes, slice them into uniform pieces for even coating.
What is the ratio of vinegar to oil?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and 3 tablespoons of white vinegar, plus the rendered bacon fat.
Can I add more salt and pepper?
Yes, the instructions suggest tasting the salad and adjusting the seasonings to your preference before serving.
What type of bacon should I buy?
Smoked bacon is best as it provides the traditional rich, smoky taste characteristic of German potato salad.
Do I need to refrigerate the salad?
If you are not serving it warm immediately, it should be kept in the refrigerator.
How much green onion is in the salad?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of sliced green onions.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients: potatoes, bacon, oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, green onions, and chives.
Can I use red potatoes for this?
Yes, red potatoes work well as they hold their shape nicely after boiling.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the listed ingredients, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How do I mix the salad without mashing the potatoes?
Gently toss the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl rather than stirring vigorously.
What is the texture of the dressing?
The dressing is a thin, warm emulsion that coats the potatoes rather than a thick, creamy sauce.