Authentic German Potato Salad Recipe

Yukon gold potatoes: These potatoes have a creamy texture and hold their shape well when cooked.

Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture to the salad.

Onion: Provides a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing a tangy kick that is essential for authentic German potato salad.

Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the dressing.

Granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.

Dijon mustard: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dressing.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthy flavor.

Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the salad.

When boiling the potatoes, make sure to start them in cold water and bring to a gentle boil. This ensures even cooking and prevents the potatoes from becoming mushy. Additionally, when cooking the bacon, do so slowly over medium heat to render out the fat properly, which will be used to flavor the onions and create a rich base for the dressing.

• yukon gold potatoes - Substitute with red potatoes: Red potatoes have a similar texture and hold their shape well when cooked, making them a good alternative.

• diced bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option and provides a similar smoky flavor.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can mimic the tanginess of apple cider vinegar.

• water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and a slight floral note.

• dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor with added texture from the mustard seeds.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, which can be a subtle change.

• chopped fresh parsley - Substitute with chopped fresh cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.

• Allow the potato salad to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Transfer the potato salad to an airtight container. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to keep the salad fresh.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The potato salad can be kept for up to 3-4 days.
• For freezing, place the potato salad in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the potato salad in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Gently reheat the potato salad in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar if it appears dry.
• Alternatively, serve the potato salad cold or at room temperature after thawing.

• For the best results, reheat your leftover German potato salad in a skillet. Place the salad in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the texture of the potatoes and the crispiness of the bacon.

• Alternatively, you can use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the potato salad evenly in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

• If you're in a hurry, the microwave is a quick option. Place the potato salad in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the salad is heated through.

• For a unique twist, try reheating the potato salad in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method can help revive the crispiness of the bacon.

• If you have a steamer, you can gently reheat the potato salad without drying it out. Place the salad in a heatproof dish and set it in the steamer basket. Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and flavors of the potatoes and dressing.

• Large pot: Used to boil the potatoes until they are tender.

• Skillet: Used to cook the bacon until crispy and to prepare the dressing.

• Colander: Used to drain the boiled potatoes.

• Slotted spoon: Used to remove the bacon from the skillet while leaving the drippings behind.

• Wooden spoon: Used to stir the onions and dressing ingredients in the skillet.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the apple cider vinegar and water.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the sugar, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

• Cutting board: Used to chop the onion and parsley.

• Chef's knife: Used to dice the bacon and chop the onion and parsley.

• Mixing bowl: Used to gently toss the potatoes with the hot dressing, bacon, and parsley.

• Serving dish: Used to serve the potato salad warm or at room temperature.

Pre-boil the potatoes: Boil the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, they are ready to use when you start cooking.

Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by using pre-chopped onions available at the grocery store.

Microwave bacon: Cook the bacon in the microwave on a paper towel-lined plate to speed up the process.

Make the dressing ahead: Prepare the dressing a day before and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before mixing with the potatoes.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.