German Potato Pancakes Recipe
Introduction
German potato pancakes are crispy, golden, and packed with comforting flavor. Made from simple ingredients, they make a perfect side dish or snack that’s quick to prepare and delicious to eat.
Ingredients
- 4 medium starchy potatoes (like Russets)
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel the potatoes and onion, then grate them using a box grater or food processor.
- Step 2: Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine the drained mixture with beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the skillet, flatten slightly, and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Step 6: Drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes before mixing.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the batter for a subtle flavor boost.
- Serve with applesauce or sour cream for a classic pairing.
Storage
Store leftover potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, rather than microwaving which can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Starchy potatoes like Russets are best for this recipe because they crisp up well. Waxy potatoes may result in a softer texture.
How do I keep the pancakes from falling apart?
Removing excess moisture and using eggs and flour to bind the mixture are key. Make sure the batter is well combined and handle each pancake gently when flipping.
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German Potato Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Crispy German Potato Pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, are a deliciously golden and savory treat made from grated potatoes and onions, mixed with eggs and flour, and fried to perfection. These pancakes are perfect as a side dish or a satisfying snack, offering a comforting taste of traditional German cuisine.
Ingredients
Potato Pancakes
- 4 medium starchy potatoes (Russets)
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes and onion: Peel the potatoes and the onion, then grate them finely using a box grater or food processor to create a shredded mixture.
- Remove excess moisture: Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to ensure crisp pancakes.
- Mix the batter: Transfer the drained mixture to a bowl and combine with beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Heat the oil: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for frying.
- Fry the pancakes: Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon, and cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Remove the cooked pancakes and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil before serving hot.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture.
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to achieve crispiness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or chopped fresh herbs like chives for extra flavor if desired.
- Serve with applesauce, sour cream, or smoked salmon as traditional accompaniments.
- Can be kept warm in a low oven while frying the remaining pancakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
Keywords: German potato pancakes, Kartoffelpuffer, crispy potato pancakes, traditional German recipe, fried potato pancakes
