This authentic Bavarian German potato salad is a warm and tangy treat! Made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it’s perfect for any gathering.
Every bite is a little party in your mouth! I love serving it alongside sausages or just as a hearty side. And let’s be honest, who can resist those crispy bacon bits? 🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Waxy Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture and flavor. They hold their shape well after cooking. If unavailable, try yellow or new potatoes.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works too, just remember it has a different flavor profile.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the salad. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This vinegar gives the salad its signature tang. You can replace it with white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar acidity, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Granulated Sugar: The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar. If you prefer, try using honey or maple syrup instead for a unique twist.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Potatoes for This Salad?
Perfectly cooked potatoes are key to this salad. Aim for tender potatoes that hold their shape. Here’s how:
- Start with cold water. This helps the potatoes cook evenly without getting mushy outside.
- Watch the time! For smaller or sliced potatoes, 15 minutes is usually enough; larger ones may require closer to 20-25 minutes.
- Test for doneness by piercing with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, they’re done. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll fall apart in the salad.
Following these tips will help ensure your potato salad is just the right texture, delicious every time!
Authentic Bavarian German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds waxy potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup beef broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook this delicious Bavarian potato salad. This includes about 20 minutes for boiling the potatoes and 10-15 minutes for making the dressing and assembling the salad. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the waxy potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes cook until they are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 15-20 minutes depending on their size. When they’re ready, drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the potatoes are cooling, you can peel them if you wish (the skins can also be left on for added texture). Then, cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks for the salad. Make sure they’re still warm when you combine them with the dressing; this helps the potatoes absorb the flavors better.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. This step will add a delightful crunch to the salad! Once cooked, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
4. Sauté the Onions:
Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté the onions over medium heat until they soften and become translucent, which should take around 3-5 minutes. This adds a lovely sweetness to the dressing.
5. Make the Dressing:
Next, stir in the beef broth (or vegetable broth), apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes. This step allows the ingredients to meld together nicely and create a flavorful dressing.
6. Combine the Salad:
Pour the hot dressing over your warm potato chunks in a large bowl. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the potatoes get coated in that delicious dressing.
7. Add the Bacon and Season:
Now it’s time to stir in those crispy bacon bits you set aside earlier. Don’t forget to season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it another gentle toss to mix everything evenly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color. This potato salad can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with sausages, pretzels, or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty side!
Enjoy your authentic Bavarian potato salad! It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. 🍽️
FAQ for Authentic Bavarian German Potato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While waxy potatoes are recommended for their texture, you can also use other types like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just avoid starchy potatoes, as they can turn mushy in the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a similar flavor profile. You can also use turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so you might want to let it sit out for a bit before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and dressing a day in advance. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to serve. This can even enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
