German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

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German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

Breakfast & Brunch

German Potato Pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, are a crispy, golden treat made from grated potatoes and onions. They’re traditionally served with applesauce or sour cream, making them a delicious, savory snack or side dish. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these potato pancakes are easy to make and irresistibly tasty!

Why You’ll Love These German Potato Pancakes

  • Crispy and Golden: Perfectly crisp on the outside while soft and tender on the inside.
  • Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to create this satisfying dish.
  • Versatile: Serve them as a savory side or pair them with applesauce for a sweet and savory combo.

Ingredients for German Potato Pancakes

  • 2 lbs (about 4 large) potatoes, peeled and grated
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)
  • Applesauce or sour cream (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

  • Grater or food processor
  • Mixing bowl
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Spatula
  • Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

How to Make German Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Peel and grate the potatoes using the large holes of a grater or food processor. Grate the onion as well.
  2. Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is essential for achieving crispy pancakes.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained potatoes and onion with the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Fry the Potato Pancakes

  1. Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Once the oil is hot, scoop about ¼ cup of the potato mixture and flatten it into a pancake shape, about ½ inch thick.
  3. Place the pancakes in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the potato pancakes warm with a side of applesauce or sour cream. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!

Tips for the Best German Potato Pancakes

  • Drain the Potatoes Well: Removing excess moisture is key to getting the pancakes crispy, so don’t skip this step.
  • Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe, as they provide the right texture.
  • Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the pancakes cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can fry the pancakes in advance and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to crisp them up before serving.

Q2: Can I freeze potato pancakes?
A: Absolutely! After frying, let the pancakes cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Q3: What can I serve with German Potato Pancakes?
A: Traditionally, they’re served with applesauce or sour cream, but you can also enjoy them with smoked salmon, sautéed vegetables, or even ketchup for a more casual option.

Conclusion: A Crispy, Golden Delight!

German Potato Pancakes are an easy and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them with applesauce for breakfast or serving them as a side with dinner, these crispy potato pancakes are sure to please. Give them a try, and savor the simple yet satisfying flavors of this traditional German favorite!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g

Enjoy every crispy bite of these golden German Potato Pancakes, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!

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