Circa 1972 German Potato Salad, ala Family Circle

I bought a 1972 Family Circle cookbook today at a used bookstore, and laughed out loud when I saw this recipe due to the recent controvery here at Zaar surrounding "german" potato salad. I post it here not because I think it sounds yummy (actually, I think it sounds kind of yucky), but for historical purposes. About this recipe, Family Circle says, "This old-fashioned winner goes modern with quick-fix potatoes and lots of crisp bacon chips in a hot spicy dressing."

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 lb bacon (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
• 1 (1 lb) bag  frozen French fries
• 1  cup  chopped celery
• 2  tablespoons cider vinegar
• 2  tablespoons brown sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1  dash black pepper

Directions

1. In a large frying pan, saute bacon pieces until crisp; remove to paper towels to drain.
2. In same pan, cook potatoes in the drippings, following label directions for pan-frying.
3. Drain potatoes on paper towels; reserve pan drippings.
4. Cut potatoes into bite-size pieces and place in a large salad bowl along with the bacon and the celery; toss gently.
5. Pour off all bacon drippings, then return 2 tbsp to the skillet.
6. Whisk in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for one minute.
7. Pour over potato mixture, toss to mix well, and serve warm.