Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad Recipe

User Reviews

4.8

84 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    30 mins

  • Total Time

    40 mins

  • Servings

    8 servings

  • Calories

    219 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    German

Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad Recipe

This Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad features boiled red potatoes tossed in a warm dressing made from bacon drippings, sweet onion, garlic, chicken broth, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. The result is a tangy and savory potato side with tender chunks of potato coated in a flavorful vinaigrette, enhanced by crispy bacon bits and fresh herbs if desired.

Description

The recipe begins by boiling red potatoes until fork-tender, then peeling and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Bacon is cooked to crispness, leaving flavorful drippings in the pan. Onions and garlic are sautéed in the drippings to build the dressing’s base. Chicken broth, white vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper are added and simmered until slightly reduced to concentrate flavors.

Potatoes are then combined with the warm dressing and olive oil to ensure even coating. The contrast between soft potatoes and the tangy, slightly sweet dressing, along with crispy bacon pieces, creates a balanced texture and flavor profile. Optional toppings of parsley or chives add freshness.

This salad is a traditional German side dish well suited for serving alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or at picnics and gatherings. It can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for several days, making it practical for meal prep or entertaining.

Storing leftovers in an airtight container will keep the salad fresh for up to five days, and freezing is possible for three months, though texture will change. Reheat gently or serve chilled as preferred.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 lbs. potato red
  • 6 oz. Bacon coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup sweet onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic finely minced, cloves
  • ¾ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup white vinegar distilled
  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard NOT yellow!
  • 2 tsp. sugar to taste
  • 1 tsp. salt to taste
  • ¼ tsp. black pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil

Optional toppings:

  • flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
  • chives finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Add potatoes to a large pot and cover with one inch of water. Boil for , until fork tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool, 10-15 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat for 7-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet using a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings in the skillet. Keep the skillet on medium heat and add the chopped onion. Cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes, stirring often. Add the garlic and continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
  3. Peel the potatoes and cut them into ½-inch chunks.
  4. Pour in the broth and vinegar and add the mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined. Bring the sauce to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half. Remove from heat.
  5. Add the potatoes to the vinegar mixture along with the oil and toss until they are completely coated. Transfer the potatoes to a serving platter. Finely chop the cooked bacon and then sprinkle it over the potatoes along with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

  • This potato salad can be fully prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days before serving.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge before reheating gently on stovetop or microwave.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 219kcal (11%) Carbohydrates 22g (7%) Protein 5g (10%) Fat 12g (18%) Saturated Fat 3g (15%) Polyunsaturated Fat 3g (18%) Monounsaturated Fat 6g (30%) Trans Fat 1g (50%) Cholesterol 14mg (5%) Sodium 496mg (21%) Potassium 600mg (13%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 4g (8%) Vitamin A 18IU (0%) Vitamin C 12mg (13%) Calcium 22mg (2%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 219 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 219kcal 11%
Carbohydrates 22g 7%
Protein 5g 10%
Fat 12g 18%
Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3g 18%
Monounsaturated Fat 6g 30%
Trans Fat 1g 50%
Cholesterol 14mg 5%
Sodium 496mg 21%
Potassium 600mg 13%
Fiber 2g 8%
Sugar 4g 8%
Vitamin A 18IU 0%
Vitamin C 12mg 13%
Calcium 22mg 2%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.8

84 reviews
Excellent

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