My German grandma first made this recipe for me. Been fixing it for years!

When the brisk winds whistle through the golden wheat fields and the air turns crisp, there’s a sense that it’s time to gather around for something hearty, something that warms you straight through. It’s during these times that I often think back to the German immigrants who brought their rich culinary traditions to the heart of the Midwest. One dish that has stood the test of time, adapting to both fancy garden parties and simple family gatherings, is the beloved German Potato Salad. Its tangy sweetness and robust flavors bring about a sense of nostalgia, harking back to communal dinners and stories shared over the dining table. This particular slow cooker version, enriched with a can of cream of chicken soup, lends an even more inviting creaminess to the concoction, making it a recipe you’d want to hold on to for its simplicity and heartwarming essence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This German Potato Salad is a dish that holds its own with pride, yet it’s also versatile enough to accompany a myriad of main courses. I’d recommend serving it alongside a tender roasted chicken, or perhaps with a juicy pork tenderloin. If you’re leaning towards a lighter meal, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, studded with red onions and sharp cheddar cubes. And let’s not forget, a slice of thick-crusted bread to sop up any of that flavorful dressing would be as welcome as a good friend dropping by with a surprise pie.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving dish

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of red potatoes, cubed
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 strips of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup of chicken stock
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Begin by placing your cubed red potatoes into the slow cooker. These little red gems will hold their shape nicely and absorb all the flavors we’re going to introduce.
2. Next, scatter the diced onion and chopped bacon over the potatoes. The onion will mellow and sweeten as it cooks, while the bacon infuses a smoky hug throughout the dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, cream of chicken soup, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure it’s well-mixed, as this is what will dress our potatoes in rich, tangy goodness.
4. Pour the mixture over the potatoes, onions, and bacon. Give it a gentle stir to coat everything evenly.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender to the touch of a fork’s prong.
6. Once done, give it a good mix and transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness right before it’s time to eat.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the potatoes are cut into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• For a deeper flavor, consider browning the bacon slightly before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as slow cooking can sometimes mellow flavors.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a milder taste.
• Add a dollop of sour cream before serving for an extra creamy texture.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, you can use Yukon gold or russet potatoes, but adjust cooking times as they may vary in texture.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I make this recipe in advance? Absolutely! Prepare it the day before and reheat it gently before serving to allow the flavors to meld even more.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this German Potato Salad as I am to share it with you. Its heartwarming flavors and comforting textures are sure to make it a favorite in your household, just as it has been in mine. Please feel free to share your experiences and any tweaks you might have made—I’d love to hear how this recipe fits into your own family traditions!