Delicious and Authentic German Kartoffelsalat Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg of waxy potatoes
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 300 ml beef broth
  • 6 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard
  • 100 ml vegetable oil
  • 4 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the potatoes and place them in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
  2. Drain the potatoes and set aside until they are cool enough to handle. Then peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds.
  3. While the potatoes are cooling, take a medium saucepan, add the finely chopped onion and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, and mustard until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  5. Slowly whisk in the vegetable oil into the vinegar mixture until it's well combined.
  6. Pour the broth and onion mixture over the sliced potatoes, followed by the vinegar and oil dressing. Gently toss everything together to make sure all the potatoes are coated.
  7. Allow the potato salad to sit for at least an hour to absorb all the flavors.
  8. Just before serving, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Used for boiling the potatoes
  • Medium saucepan - Used for simmering the onion and beef broth mixture
  • Whisk - Used for mixing the vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and mustard
  • Bowl - Used for whisking together the dressing
  • Knife - Used for chopping the onion and slicing the potatoes
  • Colander - Used for draining the cooked potatoes

Recipe variations

  • Add crispy bacon or diced ham for a meaty variation.
  • Add chopped pickles or pickled cucumbers for a tangy twist.
  • Include diced bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and color.
  • Try using Dijon mustard instead of regular mustard for a more intense flavor.
  • Mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
  • Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
  • Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, chives, or basil to enhance the flavor profile.
  • For a healthier option, use olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
  • Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, for a unique taste.
  • If you prefer a warm potato salad, gently heat the dressing before pouring it over the potatoes.

Recipe overview

Get ready to explore a traditional German dish with this Kartoffelsalat recipe! Kartoffelsalat, or German potato salad, is a tangy and savory side dish that's a staple at gatherings and family dinners. Unlike the creamy American version, this German potato salad is made with a rich and tangy vinegar-based dressing, giving it a unique and delectable flavor. The potatoes are boiled until they're just the right tenderness, then tossed in a flavorful dressing made from beef broth, vinegar, sugar, and mustard. The salad is then left to sit for an hour to absorb all the flavors, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness. Just before serving, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness. Whether you're making it for a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this Kartoffelsalat is sure to be a hit!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use other waxy varieties such as Yukon gold or red potatoes.
  2. Can I substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth? Absolutely! Vegetable broth can be used as a suitable substitute for beef broth.
  3. How long does this potato salad need to sit before serving? It is recommended to let the potato salad sit for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Can I make this potato salad in advance? Yes, you can prepare the potato salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good toss before serving.
  5. Can I add other ingredients like pickles or bacon? Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like pickles, bacon, or even hard-boiled eggs to suit your taste.
  6. Is it necessary to peel the potatoes? Peeling the potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you prefer a more rustic potato salad, you can leave the skin on.
  7. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar? Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for white vinegar if you prefer a slightly tangier flavor.
  8. How long can I store leftover potato salad? Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Potato peeler - Used to peel the cooked potatoes.
  • Knife - Used to slice the peeled potatoes into thin rounds.
  • Large pot - Used to cook the potatoes.
  • Medium saucepan - Used to simmer the onion and beef broth mixture.
  • Whisk - Used to combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and mustard.
  • Mixing bowl - Used to whisk together the dressing and mix with the potatoes.
  • Serving bowl - Used to serve the finished potato salad.
  • Spoon or spatula - Used to gently toss the potatoes with the dressing.
  • Chopping board - Used to chop the onion and parsley.

Origin stories

Kartoffelsalat, or German potato salad, hails from Southern Germany, and it's a beloved staple in Bavarian cuisine. Unlike the creamy mayonnaise-based potato salads many might be familiar with, this version is made with a delightful vinegar-based dressing, with onions and fresh herbs for flavor. An interesting note about Kartoffelsalat is its traditionally served warm, which allows the potatoes to absorb the tangy dressing, enhancing the salad's flavor. This dish takes center stage during the German celebration of Oktoberfest, but it's enjoyed year-round, often accompanying sausages or schnitzel. The humble potato, transformed through this straightforward, yet flavorful preparation, epitomizes the heartiness and simplicity found at the core of German cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.