Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad

Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad is an elevated classic, ready to level up your side dish game at your next barbecue or picnic. Combining crispy pan fried chorizo with boiled Kipfler potatoes, tossed in a herb-packed mayonnaise yoghurt dressing.

Potato salad, a versatile and much beloved dish, has found its way onto tables worldwide, adapting to regional flavours and culinary traditions. So why not add another version into the mix! My rendition that adds a delightful twist to the classic potato salad and I think it deserves a spot on your Australian Christmas table.

The Rich History of Potato Salad

The humble potato salad has a fascinating history that spans centuries. Its roots can be traced back to 16th-century Spain, where explorers brought potatoes from the New World to Europe. Initially, potatoes were viewed with suspicion - I mean, a brown lump you dig up from the ground? How odd! But we soon learnt better, and over time they gained popularity as a versatile and affordable staple.

The concept of a cold potato dish dressed with various ingredients emerged in the 18th century. The German tradition of serving warm potatoes with a vinaigrette-like dressing laid the foundation for what we now know as potato salad. As the dish traversed borders, each country infused its unique flavours and ingredients, resulting in a myriad of variations.

Global Twists on Potato Salad

Potato salad is like a culinary chameleon, adapting to the ingredients available and the preferences of different cultures. In the United States, classic potato salad is often mayonnaise-based, while German potato salad leans towards a warm, vinegar-infused preparation. In France, you might find potatoes paired with mustard and herbs, creating a zesty and aromatic dish.

South American versions often include ingredients like corn, while Scandinavian recipes incorporate beets for a vibrant touch. The Japanese have their own twist, adding seaweed and soy sauce for a savoury umami kick. The diversity of these adaptations showcases the universal appeal of this simple yet versatile dish.

A Diverse Side Dish

Potato salad is not just diverse in flavour but also in presentation. In Germany, it's a common sight at Oktoberfest gatherings, served warm and accompanied by sausages. The German variation often features a bacon-infused dressing, adding a savoury element to the mix. American picnics often showcase the classic mayonnaise-based version, a comforting companion to grilled favourites. French cuisine, known for its culinary finesse, presents potato salad as an elegant side dish at formal dinners, the potatoes meticulously sliced and layered. This attention to detail emphasises the dish's versatility, fitting seamlessly into both casual and sophisticated settings.

In Sweden, a herring-infused potato salad takes centre stage during Midsummer celebrations, its briny notes complementing the festive atmosphere. The Japanese embrace a unique approach by turning potato salad into a sandwich. Encased between slices of soft bread, the salad becomes a portable delight, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. This global variety highlights the adaptability of potato salad to different cultures and occasions.

In Australia, where culinary influences from around the world converge, potato salad becomes a staple at summer barbecues and Christmas feasts alike. The warm climate calls for a refreshing twist, and Australians often incorporate fresh herbs and a zesty dressing to brighten up the dish. The Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad, with its bold flavours and vibrant colours, seamlessly fits into the Australian holiday table, embodying the nation's love for diverse, flavourful cuisine. Whether served alongside a barbecue or as part of a festive spread, the Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad adds a touch of international flair to Down Under celebrations.

Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad: A Flavourful Fusion

Enter the Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad, a culinary fusion that marries the rich, smoky flavours of chorizo with the freshness of herbs. Chorizo, a Spanish and Portuguese sausage, introduces a bold and spicy kick to the mild-mannered potato.

And let's not forget that the choice of potato plays a crucial role. For any potato salad, I suggest waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape well during boiling and mixing. Waxy potatoes are less likely to turn mushy, ensuring that each bite maintains a satisfying balance of flavours and textures. For these reasons, I've opted for Kipfler potatoes for my Chorizo and Herb Potato Salad, another waxy variety. Their buttery, nutty taste when boiled is a great vessel for the other ingredients in this salad.

The addition of fresh herbs elevates the dish, imparting a burst of brightness and complexity. You can use what you have available, but my favourites include dill, parsley and chives and as a good base.

Ingredients

• Kipfler potatoes
• Red wine vinegar
• Olive oil
• Chorizo
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yoghurt
• Mixed fresh herbs
• Spring onions
• Salt
• Pepper

See recipe card below for quantities.

Tips and Variations

• Potatoes: if you aren't able to find Kipfler potatoes, any waxy variety like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes will work for this recipe. Avoid floury or starchy potatoes.
• Herbs: one cup of mixed fresh herbs is required for this recipe, and I urge you to use what you have available! My favourites include: dill, parsley, chives, oregano and mint, however coriander and basil would also work well.

Equipment

• Chopping board
• Knife
• Sauce pan
• Fry pan
• Large bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Watch the video here. If you make this recipe, don't forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram. I love to see it!