German Sweet Sour Dressing

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: German

A tangy and sweet German dressing with sugar, vinegar, and spices, perfect for salads, slaw, and potato dishes, adding a flavorful zest to various cold dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. sugar
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 c. vinegar

Instructions

  1. Mix all dry ingredients (sugar, pepper, dry mustard, garlic powder, salt) together.
  2. Add the vinegar to the dry mixture and stir well.
  3. Optionally, heat the mixture, but it is not necessary.
  4. Add 1 cup salad oil of your choice and shake well.
  5. Refrigerate before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a balanced flavor, adjust the sugar according to your taste preference. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, consider substituting a portion of the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia. This dressing can be customized by adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost. Remember to shake well before serving to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

Serving Suggestions

This German Sweet Sour Dressing is perfect for drizzling over fresh salads or marinating grilled vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Creole Vegetables for a vibrant meal. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers or a tangy topping for sandwiches. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will meld and improve over time. If the dressing thickens, simply shake it well before using. It’s not necessary to reheat; serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Sweet Sour Dressing contains roughly 111 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).

111 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 0g
Carbs 21.7g 8% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 18g 36% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1772.7mg 77% DV
Potassium 156mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.2mcg
Vitamin C 1.5mg 2% DV
Calcium 34.9mg 3% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, this dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop fully, making it even more delicious when served.

What types of vinegar work best for this recipe?

While the recipe calls for vinegar without specifying, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are excellent choices. They provide a nice balance of acidity and sweetness that complements the sugar in the dressing.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this dressing is vegan-friendly, especially if you use a plant-based salad oil. It's a versatile option that can enhance many vegan recipes, making it a great addition to salads and grain bowls.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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