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
- Peel and grate the potatoes using the large holes of a grater or food processor. Grate the onion as well.
- 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
- 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
- Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, scoop about ¼ cup of the potato mixture and flatten it into a pancake shape, about ½ inch thick.
- Place the pancakes in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- 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
- 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!