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Authentic German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat)

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  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: German
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Authentic German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat) is tangy, slightly sweet, and served warm with a bacon and vinegar dressing. Unlike the creamy American version, this dish is a flavorful side for BBQs, potlucks, or schnitzel. Perfect for any occasion!


Ingredients

Scale
  1. 2 lbs (900g) waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
  2. 6 slices bacon, diced
  3. 1 small onion, finely diced
  4. 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  5. 1/4 cup water
  6. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  7. 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  8. 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  9. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  10. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  11. 2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

  • Boil the Potatoes:

    • Scrub the potatoes clean (leave skins on for an authentic touch).
    • Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
    • Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
    • Drain and let them cool slightly before peeling (if desired). Slice into 1/4-inch rounds or dice into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cook the Bacon & Onion:

    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy.
    • Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
    • Add the diced onion to the bacon fat and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
  • Make the Dressing:

    • Reduce heat to low. Stir in the vinegar, water, mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
    • Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  • Assemble the Salad:

    • Gently toss the warm potatoes with the hot dressing, ensuring they soak up all the flavors.
    • Add the crispy bacon and fresh parsley. If needed, drizzle in a little oil for extra richness.
  • Serve Warm:

    • Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • This salad is traditionally served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
  • Adjust sugar and vinegar amounts based on your preferred level of tanginess or sweetness.
  • For extra richness, feel free to add vegetable or olive oil to the dressing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg