Experience the rich, savory flavors of traditional German cuisine with this Warm and Hearty German Potato Bacon Salad. This dish is a comforting blend of tender red potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy mustard dressing that will warm your soul. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a side dish to complement your favorite main course, this potato salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The combination of apple cider vinegar and mustard adds a zesty kick, while the fresh parsley brings a touch of brightness to this hearty dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds medium-sized red potatoes
- 1 tablespoon + 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (use a bit more if you prefer a stronger mustard flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Begin by placing the red potatoes in a large pot, covering them with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the water and bring it to a boil.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly. When cool enough to handle, cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skins on for texture and color.
- Prepare the Bacon and Onion:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until they are crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, placing it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the Dressing:
- With the onion and garlic still in the skillet, pour in the apple cider vinegar, whole-grain mustard, Dijon mustard, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture well, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the dressing to come together.
- Let the dressing simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm, cut potatoes with the cooked bacon. Pour the warm mustard dressing over the potatoes and bacon, tossing gently to ensure everything is well coated.
- The warm dressing will help the potatoes absorb all the wonderful flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine through.
- This salad is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sausages, or can be enjoyed as a hearty dish on its own.
Conclusion:
The Warm and Hearty German Potato Bacon Salad is a classic dish that brings together the best of comforting flavors in one bowl. The crisp bacon, tender potatoes, and tangy mustard dressing create a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether served warm as a side dish or enjoyed as a main course, this potato salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With its rich and satisfying taste, it’s the ideal dish for any occasion, offering a taste of German tradition with every bite.