Viennese Salad

Viennese Salad Recipe - Traditional Austrian Dish with Potatoes, Frankfurters, and more

Region / culture: Austria | Servings: 4

Introduction

Viennese Salad is a classic Austrian dish that combines tender potatoes, savory frankfurters, tangy gherkins, and flavorful anchovies in a simple yet delicious salad. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a hearty meal.

History

Viennese Salad has its origins in the vibrant culinary scene of Vienna, Austria. This salad has been a popular dish in Austrian households for generations, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe. The combination of potatoes, frankfurters, and pickles creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and comforting.

Ingredients

450 g / 1 lb potatoes
4 frankfurters
2 onions, thinly sliced and separated into rings
4 tinned anchovy fillets, desalted and finely chopped
50 g / 2 oz gherkins, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp wine vinegar
salt and pepper

How to prepare

Peel and slice the potatoes. Cook them in boiling water for about 8 minutes, or until tender.
Place the frankfurters in a pan of boiling water and cook for 5 minutes.
Drain and cut the frankfurters into slices.
In a bowl, beat together the oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Drain the potato slices and arrange them in a large bowl along with the frankfurter slices and onion rings.
Pour the dressing over the warm salad, mix well, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
To serve, sprinkle the chopped anchovies and gherkins over the salad and serve immediately.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness.
Substitute smoked sausages for the frankfurters for a different flavor profile.
Use capers instead of anchovies for a milder taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender but still firm to the touch. Overcooking the potatoes can result in a mushy salad.

- Desalting the anchovy fillets before chopping them will help to balance the flavors of the salad.

- Mixing the dressing with the warm potatoes and frankfurters allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious salad.

Serving Suggestions

Viennese Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing beer for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the potatoes and frankfurters ensures that they are cooked through and tender before mixing them with the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have anchovies, you can use capers or olives for a similar salty flavor. You can also use any type of vinegar in place of wine vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Viennese Salad ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just be sure to add the anchovies and gherkins right before serving to keep them fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Viennese Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Viennese Salad pairs well with grilled sausages, schnitzel, or roasted chicken. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Viennese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad until warmed through or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Viennese Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Viennese Salad is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the potatoes and gherkins. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The olive oil used in the dressing adds healthy fats to the Viennese Salad. Each serving contains around 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

The frankfurters and anchovies in Viennese Salad provide a good amount of protein. Each serving contains about 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Viennese Salad is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron from the potatoes and gherkins.

Alergens

This recipe contains anchovies, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Viennese Salad is a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals in each serving.

Summary

Viennese Salad is a classic Austrian dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a combination of tender potatoes, savory frankfurters, tangy gherkins, and flavorful anchovies, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy this dish as a side or a light lunch for a taste of Vienna in your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Viennese Salad. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Anna in Vienna. She had invited me over for lunch and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, the delicious aroma of this salad hit my nose. I watched as she effortlessly chopped the vegetables and mixed them together with a tangy dressing. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish.

Anna smiled as she saw my interest and invited me to help her prepare the salad. As we worked together, she shared with me the story of how she learned to make it. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family and that each woman had added her own personal touch to it. Anna's version included a secret ingredient that she had learned from her grandmother, a pinch of paprika that gave the salad a unique flavor.

I was fascinated by the history behind the recipe and knew that I had to make it a part of my own repertoire. Anna was more than happy to share the recipe with me and over the next few hours, she patiently guided me through the steps. I watched her every move, taking mental notes of the measurements and techniques she used.

After we finished making the salad, we sat down to enjoy our meal. The Viennese Salad was a delightful combination of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy potatoes, all dressed in a light vinaigrette. The flavors danced on my taste buds and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my kitchen.

As I bid farewell to Anna that evening, I promised her that I would cherish the recipe and pass it down to future generations. I returned home with a newfound appreciation for Viennese cuisine and a determination to perfect the art of making this salad.

Over the years, I have made the Viennese Salad countless times, each time adding my own twist to it. I have experimented with different herbs and spices, trying to find the perfect balance of flavors. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its delicious taste.

One day, while browsing through an old cookbook, I stumbled upon a recipe for Viennese Salad that was similar to the one I had learned from Anna. I realized then that this dish had a rich history and was a beloved tradition in many households. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I was a part of that tradition, carrying on the legacy of this timeless recipe.

As I grow older, I find solace in the kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and tastes of the Viennese Salad. It reminds me of the friendships I have forged, the memories I have created, and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones.

I am grateful to Anna for introducing me to this recipe and for teaching me the art of making Viennese Salad. It has become more than just a dish to me; it is a symbol of tradition, love, and connection. And as I continue to cook and bake, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.