Schmaltz Potato Salad

Alright, friends, if you’re looking to elevate your potato salad game, Schmaltz Potato Salad is where it’s at. Imagine tender potatoes soaked in rich, flavorful schmaltz—rendered chicken fat—paired with tangy mustard and crunchy onions, creating the kind of potato salad that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Trust me, this isn’t your typical side dish; this is a potato salad that steals the show.

It’s got that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and just the right amount of bite, making it the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or even just a simple weeknight dinner. Every bite will make you go, “Where has this been all my life?”

Why You’ll Love Schmaltz Potato Salad

Rich, Flavorful, and Cozy
Schmaltz adds a depth of flavor to the potatoes like nothing else. It’s a little indulgent, but oh-so-worth-it. It’s comfort food with a little extra soul.

Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a holiday meal, or just making something comforting for dinner, this potato salad is perfect. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or just about any dish that needs a sidekick.

Simple, but Elevated
Schmaltz Potato Salad is surprisingly easy to make, yet it’s a total crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients, you’ll get a side dish that tastes like it came from a family recipe passed down through generations.

Customizable
Love hard-boiled eggs? Throw some in! Want a little more crunch? Add pickles or celery. You can tweak this recipe to suit your personal taste, making it as classic or as unique as you like.

Comforting and Satisfying
Let’s be real: potatoes + schmaltz = ultimate comfort. This salad is hearty enough to fill you up, yet light enough to leave room for everything else at the table.

Ingredients in Schmaltz Potato Salad

Here’s what you need to create this delicious potato salad:

For the Salad:

• Potatoes: The heart of the dish! You’ll want a starchy potato like Yukon Golds or Russets that hold up well when boiled and mixed.
• Schmaltz (Chicken Fat): The star ingredient! This rich fat brings a deep, savory flavor to the potatoes. You can easily find it at the store or make it yourself by rendering chicken skin.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a little sweetness and crunch. You can use red onion for a milder flavor if you prefer.
• Dijon Mustard: For that sharp, tangy bite that balances the richness of the schmaltz.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of vinegar adds a nice acidity to cut through the heaviness of the salad.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course.

For the Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for a fresh, green pop.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: For extra creaminess and protein (totally optional but highly recommended!).

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

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Boil the Potatoes: Start by washing and cutting the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Dressing: While the potatoes are cooling, melt the schmaltz in a small pan over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and combined.
3. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm potatoes with the chopped onion. Pour the schmaltz dressing over the potatoes and toss gently until everything is coated.
4. Let It Chill: Allow the potato salad to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to let all the flavors meld together.
5. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top with chopped parsley and, if you like, a sprinkle of hard-boiled eggs. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chill time)

How to Serve Schmaltz Potato Salad

• With Grilled Meats: This potato salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, or even sausages.
• As a Standalone: It’s rich enough to be a meal on its own if you’re looking for something light yet satisfying.
• Alongside Pickles: For an extra burst of flavor, serve this salad with crunchy pickles or even some sliced fresh cucumbers.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: This potato salad is perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors only get better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, so feel free to prepare it the day before.
• Schmaltz Substitute: If you can’t find schmaltz, you can use unsalted butter or olive oil as a substitute, but the schmaltz really makes this salad special.
• Add Veggies: For a little extra crunch, toss in some diced celery or even some peas.

FAQ

Q1: What type of potatoes should I use for this salad?
A1: Yukon Golds or Russet potatoes work best since they hold their shape well after boiling. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to break apart.

Q2: Can I make this potato salad vegan?
A2: Yes! Instead of schmaltz, you can use olive oil or vegan butter for a plant-based version.

Q3: Can I add bacon to this salad?
A3: Absolutely! Crispy bacon bits would add a nice salty crunch to the salad. Just sprinkle them on top before serving.

Q4: Can I use store-bought schmaltz?
A4: Yes, you can find schmaltz at specialty stores or some larger supermarkets, often in the refrigerated section. If you can’t find it, making your own at home is easy too!

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s just as tasty the next day!

Q6: Can I add hard-boiled eggs to the salad?
A6: Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs are a great addition for extra creaminess. You can mix them into the salad or use them as a garnish.

Q7: How long should I let the salad chill?
A7: Let the salad chill for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together, but it’s even better if you let it sit for several hours or overnight.

Q8: Can I make this salad without vinegar?
A8: The vinegar adds a nice acidity to balance the richness of the schmaltz, but if you don’t have it, you can use lemon juice or even skip it entirely for a milder flavor.

Q9: How can I make the dressing less oily?
A9: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can use less schmaltz and add a little more mustard or vinegar for tang.

Q10: Can I freeze potato salad?
A10: It’s not recommended to freeze potato salad, as the potatoes can become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a few days in the fridge.

Conclusion

Schmaltz Potato Salad is the kind of dish that makes every meal feel special. The rich flavor of schmaltz combined with the creamy potatoes and tangy dressing is a comforting, irresistible combination. It’s a side dish that you’ll want to make again and again, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll understand why. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a casual weeknight, this potato salad is sure to be the star of the table. So go ahead, dig in, and enjoy!

Print