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Authentic German potato salad with potatoes, bacon, onions, and mustard vinaigrette dressing.

German Potato Salad

A warm, tangy, and savory potato salad made with vinegar, bacon, and onions, perfect for gatherings or a cozy side dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: German
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes Hold their shape well
  • 6 slices bacon Regular cut bacon works great
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar Use white vinegar if preferred, adjust quantity to taste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Just enough to balance the tang
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon or mild German mustard
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • optional fresh herbs (parsley or chives) Add just before serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the potatoes into thick rounds after boiling or cube them for smaller pieces.
  2. Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, add a good pinch of salt, and simmer until a fork goes in easily.
  3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon and leave a couple tablespoons of drippings in the pan.
  4. Add chopped onion to the drippings and cook until it softens, then stir in vinegar, sugar, and mustard.
  5. Let it bubble for about a minute, then toss in the warm drained potatoes and pour the dressing over them.
  6. Sprinkle in the bacon and gently fold everything to keep the potato pieces mostly intact.
  7. Taste and adjust the flavor with additional sugar or vinegar as needed.

Notes

Serve warm or at least slightly warm for the best flavor. If serving cold, add a splash of vinegar and a bit of oil before serving.