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Traditional German Potato Salad with bacon, vinegar, and fresh herbs in a rustic bowl

Authentic German Potato Salad

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
This warm, tangy German potato salad is a revelation, featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes in a savory vinaigrette made from rendered bacon fat, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Crispy bacon and fresh parsley finish the dish, making it the perfect soulful side for bratwurst or pork chops.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine German
Servings 6
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet (cast-iron preferred)
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Paring knife
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rubber spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 8 oz thick-cut bacon, sliced crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Place the whole, unpeeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, until a knife slides through the center with no resistance. Drain and let sit until cool enough to handle but still warm.
  • While the potatoes cook, place the bacon in a cold large skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and the fat is rendered, about 8-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Pour off all but 1/4 cup of the rendered fat from the skillet.
  • Add the diced onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat and sauté over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Whisk together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sugar dissolves. Season with a generous pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper.
  • Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins using a paring knife (they should slip off easily). Slice the warm potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Pour the hot dressing over the warm potato slices. Add the crispy bacon and half of the fresh parsley. Gently toss with a rubber spatula until all potatoes are well coated.
  • Let the salad rest at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the potatoes to absorb the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed. Garnish with the remaining parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or Red Bliss; avoid Russets. The resting time is crucial for the potatoes to absorb the dressing—do not skip it. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. For a flavor boost, try adding 1 teaspoon of toasted caraway seeds with the onions, or replace the water with dill pickle brine for extra tang.