How many types of authentic German potato salads are there? Yes, you read that correctly… the germans love their potatoes and there are quite a few different variations. And of course, everyone has their favourite which is the one-and-only best version. Ask 5 people and you will receive 5 different answers for the best and most authentic German potato salad. Hence, there might be more than just one authentic recipe. German cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, and one classic side dish that perfectly embodies this is potato salad. Authentic German potato salad comes in various regional variations, each with its individual unique twist on flavours and ingredients. From tangy vinegar-based versions to creamy mayo-based variations, German potato salad offers a range of flavours and textures that are sure to delight any palate. Let’s explore the different types of authentic German potato salads.

Let’s explore different types of authentic German potato salads

Vinegar-based Potato Salad

One of the most traditional and authentic types of German potato salad is the vinegar-based version, also known as “Kartoffelsalat” in German. This salad is typically made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a dressing made from vinegar, oil, and mustard. The dressing sauce for this version of authentic German potato salads is tangy and slightly sweet, with a sharp flavour that pairs well with the starchy potatoes. Sometimes, bacon bits or cooked bacon can be added for extra flavour and crunch. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill are often used to garnish the salad, adding a burst of freshness. This type of potato salad is commonly served warm or at room temperature and is often enjoyed as a side dish with grilled sausages, schnitzel, or roasted meats.

Mayo-based Potato Salad

Another popular variation of German potato salad is the mayo-based version, which is creamier and richer in flavour. This type of potato salad is made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and sometimes mustard. The mayo gives the salad a smooth and creamy texture, while the vinegar adds a tangy kick. Other common ingredients that can be added to mayo-based potato salad include chopped pickles, boiled eggs, and sometimes even sliced apples for a touch of sweetness. This type of potato salad is typically served chilled and is a favourite at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Warm Bacon Potato Salad

A variation of the vinegar-based potato salad that is popular in southern Germany is the warm bacon potato salad, also known as “Schwäbischer Kartoffelsalat“. This type of potato salad is made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a warm dressing made from bacon drippings, vinegar, and sugar. The warm dressing is poured over the sliced potatoes, allowing them to absorb the flavours and become slightly softened. The result is a hearty and flavorful potato salad with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavours. This type of potato salad is often served as a main dish with slices of sausage, and grilled meats, or as a standalone dish.

New Potato Salad

New potato salad, also known as “Kartoffelsalat” in German, is a type of potato salad made with young, tender potatoes that are harvested in the spring or early summer. These potatoes are smaller in size and have a thin skin that doesn’t need to be peeled, which makes them perfect for salads. New potato salad is typically made with a simple dressing of vinegar, oil, and seasonings, and it is often tossed with fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill. The result is a light and refreshing potato salad with a delicate flavour that showcases the natural sweetness and texture of the new potatoes.

Berliner potato salad

Another variation of an authentic German potato salad originates from Berlin. Don’t be shocked at first, but it is prepared with slices or cubed apples. Yes, you read that correctly. For a recipe, head over to this Food blog: German (Berliner) Potato Salad.

Bavarian Potato Salad

The Bavarian potato salad, or “Bayrischer Kartoffelsalat“, is a unique variation that combines the tanginess of vinegar with the creaminess of mayonnaise. This type of potato salad is made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a dressing made from a mix of vinegar, oil, and mayonnaise. The dressing is typically seasoned with mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper, giving it a slightly sweet and tangy flavour profile. Sometimes, diced pickles or pickled cucumbers are also added for extra crunch and tanginess. This type of potato salad is usually served chilled and is a popular side dish in Bavarian cuisine, often enjoyed with sausages, roasted meats, or as part of a traditional Bavarian snack platter.

Swabian Potato Salad

The Swabian potato salad, or “Schwäbischer Kartoffelsalat“, is a unique variation that is known for its distinct flavours and preparation method. This type of potato salad is made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a dressing made from vinegar, oil, and beef broth. The beef broth is typically made by simmering beef or beef bones with spices, vegetables, and water, then using the resulting liquid to make the Dressing. If you fancy, you can decorate the finished Swabian potato salad with quarters of hard-boiled eggs and chives. If you want an authentic German potato salad, serve it still slightly warm for an even better experience. Just imagine this lukewarm potato salad with a tangy vinegar-based dressing, next to a hot meat product (Fleischkäse for example) and gravy.

So many more versions of authentic German potato salads

Depending on what area of Germany you travel to, there are variations of authentic potato salads. Don’t even dare to ask a local, he will always refer to his personal favourite as the best – it’s up to you to decide which one is the tastiest 😉
I’m from the very south of Germany and love a lukewarm Swabian potato salad. It’s also absolutely customary to prepare it just with a veggie broth, no bone broth.

Hence, you will find a lot of similar versions of potato salads, of which all will be somewhat authentic. Every family has their recipe, sometimes inherited from generation to generation. Just as Italian nonnas have their version of a Pasta dish, German families have their preferred version of potato salads.

Recommended dishes with potato salad are hearty meats such as Braten, or simply cooked Frankfurter Saitenwürste with mustard, Maultaschen or Käsespätzle.

Enjoy your travel to Germany and dive into the culinary adventure that is discovering different authentic German potato salads!