Kartulisalat, or Estonian potato salad, is a beloved dish often served at gatherings, parties, and festive occasions. This creamy and hearty salad combines potatoes with a variety of vegetables, eggs, and a tangy dressing. Here’s a detailed recipe to make this classic Estonian dish.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, boiled and diced
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 large carrot, boiled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 pickles, diced
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup ham, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
- Boil the Vegetables:
- Wash and peel the potatoes and carrot.
- In a large pot, boil the potatoes and carrot until tender. The potatoes will take about 15-20 minutes, and the carrot will take about 10-15 minutes.
- Drain and let them cool. Dice into small, uniform pieces.
- Boil the Eggs:
- Place the eggs in a pot of cold water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool, then peel and chop them.
- Prepare the Other Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Dice the pickles and apple.
- Thaw the peas by running them under warm water.
Assembling the Salad
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, chopped eggs, diced carrot, chopped onion, pickles, apple, peas, and ham (if using).
- Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Gently stir until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Kartulisalat to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham for a vegetarian version.
- Extra Crunch: Add finely chopped celery or bell peppers for added crunch.
- Tangier Flavor: Increase the amount of mustard for a tangier flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Kartulisalat is a filling and nutritious dish. Potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates and potassium, while eggs and peas add protein and vitamins. The inclusion of fresh vegetables and apples adds fiber and essential nutrients.
Embracing Tradition
Kartulisalat is a staple in Estonian cuisine, reflecting the country’s love for simple, hearty, and flavorful dishes. It’s a versatile salad that can be served as a side dish, main course, or part of a festive spread.
Try this authentic Kartulisalat recipe and enjoy a taste of Estonia’s rich culinary heritage. Whether for a special occasion or a casual meal, this traditional potato salad is sure to become a favorite in your home.