Name: Schmaltz Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup schmaltz (chicken fat), melted; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional); Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

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When it comes to comfort food, there’s something about a hearty, creamy potato salad that just hits the spot. But what if I told you that there’s an even more indulgent twist to the classic? Enter Schmaltz Potato Salad! This recipe takes your typical potato salad to the next level with the rich, savory flavor of schmaltz (rendered chicken fat) that makes the dish incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll never want to go back to your regular potato salad again!

Why You’ll Love Schmaltz Potato Salad

Here’s why this potato salad is a game-changer:

Versatile: It’s a great side dish for barbecues, family dinners, or holiday feasts, but it’s also perfect for enjoying on its own.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need any expensive ingredients to make this recipe—it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is easy to whip up with just a few steps and a little patience for the flavors to meld together.

Customizable: You can add your own twist, like throwing in some hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or fresh herbs.

Crowd-Pleasing: This is one of those recipes that will have everyone coming back for more. The flavors are rich and satisfying, making it a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients that come together to make this indulgent potato salad:

For the Potato Salad:

Potatoes: The heart of this dish. Waxier potatoes work best, like Yukon Gold, for a creamy texture.
Onion: A sharp and tangy onion flavor that brings balance to the rich potatoes.
Celery: Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: For that creamy, protein-packed addition.
Fresh Parsley: A burst of color and freshness to finish it off.

For the Schmaltz Dressing:

Schmaltz: The star of the show, this chicken fat adds incredible depth and flavor to the salad.
Mayonnaise: For creaminess and richness.
Dijon Mustard: A bit of tang to balance the richness of the schmaltz.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity to bring all the flavors together.
Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course, to season the dressing just right.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this irresistible potato salad:

For the Potato Salad:

Boil the Potatoes: Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot of cold water. Bring it to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly before cutting them into cubes.
Chop the Vegetables: While the potatoes are cooking, chop the onion, celery, and parsley into small pieces. Set them aside.
Hard-Boil the Eggs: In a separate pot, boil the eggs. Let them cook for about 10 minutes, then cool them under cold running water. Peel and chop the eggs into small pieces.

For the Schmaltz Dressing:

Melt the Schmaltz: In a small saucepan, gently melt the schmaltz over low heat. Once it’s melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine the melted schmaltz, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, chopped vegetables, and eggs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the potato salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors develop. Serve chilled, garnished with extra parsley for a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on the amount of schmaltz used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Schmaltz Potato Salad

This potato salad pairs wonderfully with many main dishes. Here are a few ideas to make your meal complete:

Serve alongside grilled meats, such as burgers, chicken, or ribs.
Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad for a light, summery meal.
Enjoy it as part of a picnic spread, served with other comfort foods like coleslaw or corn on the cob.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

If you don’t have schmaltz on hand, you can substitute it with butter or olive oil, but the unique flavor of schmaltz is what makes this recipe special.
Feel free to add extras like crispy bacon, pickles, or green onions to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
Make this salad a day ahead for even more flavor. The potatoes and dressing will have time to marinate, making the dish even tastier.

FAQ’s

Can I use a different type of fat instead of schmaltz?
Yes, butter or olive oil can be used as a substitute, but schmaltz gives it a unique, rich flavor that you won’t get from other fats.
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together even more.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I add bacon to the salad?
Yes! Adding crispy bacon would give the salad an extra crunchy and savory flavor.
Can I use low-fat mayo in this recipe?
Yes, you can, but the texture and richness of the salad might change slightly.
Can I use red potatoes for this recipe?
You can, but waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold are preferred for their creamy texture. Red potatoes will work but may not give the same smooth consistency.
How do I make this salad spicier?
You can add a little bit of hot sauce, finely chopped jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Can I add pickles to the potato salad?
Definitely! Pickles would add a nice tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
Can I freeze this potato salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze potato salad as the texture of the potatoes may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.
What type of vinegar can I use for the dressing?
Apple cider vinegar works best for its mild acidity, but you could also try white wine vinegar or even lemon juice for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

Schmaltz Potato Salad is a twist on the classic that’s sure to impress. With its rich, savory flavor and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any gathering or as a satisfying side to your favorite meal. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a beloved dish that everyone will rave about! Enjoy every bite of this indulgent, flavorful salad!