Kartoffelsalat โ€“ Classic German Cold Potato Salad

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Atsuko
German cold potato salad Kartoffelsalat
Author Profile Image

Atsuko

Founder of @Umami Sans Frontiรจres

๐Ÿฅ” This authentic German potato salad (Kartoffelsalat) is light, tangy, and made without mayonnaiseโ€”offering a refreshing twist on tradition. ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Inspired by a surprising discovery in Munich, where cold potatoes accompanied a sausage platter, the simple flavors and balanced acidity left a lasting impression. โ˜€๏ธ Perfect for hot summer days, itโ€™s both satisfying and memorable.

Expense

๐Ÿ’ต

Preparation

50 mins

Baking time

0 mins

Rest time

120 mins

Ingredients

Cooking time: Approximately 50 minutes (excluding chilling time in the refrigerator)
Ingredients:

For 4 to 6 people

  • 800g of Potatoes
  • 1 Onion
  • 200ml of Water
  • 1 teaspoon of Bouillon
  • 3 tablespoons of Vinegar โ€ป
  • 2 teaspoons of Mustard โ€ป
  • Salt to taste โ€ป
  • Pepper to taste โ€ป
  • ยฝ teaspoon of Sugar โ€ป
  • 4 tablespoons of Olive oil โ€ป
  • Parsley (optional) to taste
How to make it:

1/ Boil the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes, place them in a pot with the skins on, add water, and boil for 30 minutes.
German cold potato salad step 1

2/ Prepare the Onion Broth: Finely chop the onion and place it in a small pot with 200 ml of water. Boil the onion, and partway through, add 1 teaspoon of bouillon to make the broth.
German cold potato salad step 2

3/ Make the Dressing: Make the dressing by combining the โ€ป seasonings in a small bowl and mixing them well.
German cold potato salad step 3
German cold potato salad step 4.

4/ Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done boiling, immerse them in cold water for about 30 seconds to cool slightly, then peel them and slice them into pieces about 5mm thick.
German cold potato salad 5

5/ Add the Onion Broth: Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl, pour the onion broth over them, and gently mix.German cold potato salad step 6.

6/ Mix in the Dressing: Add the dressing made in step 3 and gently mix.7/ Chill the Salad: Let it cool slightly at room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

8/ Final Touches and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, chop some parsley and sprinkle it on the salad. It’s ready to serve!
German cold potato salad

๐Ÿ’ก Preparation Tips for Perfect Texture

โญ๏ธ Choose Waxy Potatoes: For best texture, use firm, waxy potatoes like yellow-fleshed or salad varieties. They hold their shape well after boiling and absorb flavors beautifully.

โญ๏ธ Chill for Full Flavor: Although the salad is pleasant warm, itโ€™s even more flavorful when chilled. For the best taste, let it rest in the refrigerator for 1โ€“2 hoursโ€”or better yet, prepare it the day before serving.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Serving Ideas and Flavor Variations

โญ๏ธ Pick the Right Vinegar: For a bright yet mellow acidity, I recommend white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar (my personal favorite). Japanese rice vinegar also works beautifully, lending a gentle roundness to the flavor.

โญ๏ธ Customize with Extras: Add chopped pickles, crispy bacon, or herbs like parsley or chives for variation. These additions are especially welcome when serving the salad as a main dish.

โญ๏ธ Pair with Sausages and Sides: As shown in the photo, I served it with petite Nuremberg sausages and Rotkohl (braised red cabbage with applesโ€”recipe available). These herb-infused sausages go perfectly with beer, so give them a try!

โญ๏ธ A Versatile Side Dish: Thanks to its light, refreshing flavor, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even hearty main dishes. Itโ€™s a true all-rounder on the table.

German cold potato salad final

Umami Sans Frontiรจres – Copyrights 2025
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Written byAtsuko

Founder of @Umami Sans Frontiรจres

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