Crispy German Potato Pancakes Recipe You Can’t Resist

Recipe By:
Alison Shear
Updated:

The aroma of golden, crispy German Potato Pancakes wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in their savory goodness. With each bite, the delightful crunch gives way to a fluffy interior, making it an irresistible treat that dances on your taste buds.

As a child, these pancakes were a comforting staple at family gatherings, often served with a dollop of sour cream. I remember eagerly awaiting the moment when my grandmother would pull them from the skillet, making me feel like a true connoisseur of comfort food. Whether it’s breakfast for dinner or a festive holiday feast, these pancakes promise joy in every mouthful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This easy German Potato Pancake recipe offers incredible flavor without complicated techniques.
  • The pancakes are visually appealing with their golden-brown crust and fluffy center.
  • Perfect for any occasion, they can be served as a side dish or a main course.
  • Customize toppings to suit your palate—sour cream or applesauce make delightful companions!

Ingredients for German Potato Pancakes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for the best texture and flavor.

  • Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; grated finely to blend well with the potatoes.

  • Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together while adding richness to the batter.

  • Flour: Use all-purpose flour for structure; it helps achieve that perfect pancake consistency.

  • Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is essential—add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance flavors.

  • Oil or Butter: For frying, use vegetable oil or butter; both create a crispy exterior that’s hard to resist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for German Potato Pancakes

How to Make German Potato Pancakes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and grating your potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel—nobody wants soggy pancakes!

Step 2: Mix It Up

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes with finely grated onion. Add two eggs and stir in the flour until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Season

Sprinkle salt and pepper into your mixture. Taste it (don’t worry about raw eggs; you’re just seasoning) and adjust as needed.

Step 4: Heat Up That Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil or butter to coat the bottom—this will give you that coveted crispy edge.

Step 5: Fry Away

Scoop about a quarter cup of potato mixture into the skillet for each pancake. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cook until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels if desired. Serve immediately topped with sour cream or applesauce for an authentic touch that’ll transport you straight to Germany!

These German Potato Pancakes are not just food; they’re little bites of nostalgia wrapped in crispy goodness. Enjoy them any time of day, and watch as they become a beloved staple in your home too!

You Must Know

  • German Potato Pancakes are not just a dish; they are a celebration of comfort food at its finest.
  • With crispy edges and a soft, fluffy inside, each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen in Germany.
  • Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these pancakes are as versatile as your imagination allows.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grating the potatoes and onions, then drain excess moisture for crunchier pancakes. Heat oil in a skillet before mixing the ingredients and cooking in batches until golden brown on both sides.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative! Add garlic for an extra punch or incorporate different herbs like chives or parsley. You could even swap out some potatoes for sweet potatoes for a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or skillet to regain that crispy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly crispy German Potato Pancakes, ensure your grated potatoes are well-drained to eliminate excess moisture.
  • Use high-heat oil like vegetable or canola oil for frying to achieve golden perfection.
  • Lastly, avoid overcrowding the pan; give each pancake room to breathe.

There’s nothing quite like the first time I made German Potato Pancakes for my family during a snowy winter evening. The smiles on their faces when they took that first bite warmed my heart just as much as the kitchen did!

FAQs :

What are German Potato Pancakes made of?

German Potato Pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, primarily consist of grated potatoes, flour, eggs, and seasoning. The main ingredient is potatoes, which provide the base for these delicious pancakes. You can add onions for extra flavor and a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Some variations include incorporating herbs or spices, but the traditional recipe focuses on the simple combination of these core ingredients.

How do you cook German Potato Pancakes?

To cook German Potato Pancakes, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. It’s essential to ensure that the pancakes are cooked through and not too soggy. Serve them hot with applesauce or sour cream for a delightful experience.

Can you make German Potato Pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare German Potato Pancakes ahead of time. Grate the potatoes and mix them with other ingredients up to a day in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. When ready to cook, just stir well and fry them according to your usual method. For best results, it’s recommended to serve them fresh; however, reheating is possible if necessary.

What toppings go well with German Potato Pancakes?

German Potato Pancakes pair wonderfully with various toppings. Traditional options include applesauce and sour cream, which complement the savory flavor beautifully. You can also try adding chives or smoked salmon for a gourmet twist. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider using salsa or even avocado for a refreshing contrast. The versatility of toppings allows you to customize your meal based on your preferences.

Conclusion for German Potato Pancakes :

German Potato Pancakes are a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor. With grated potatoes as their base, they offer a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with various toppings like applesauce or sour cream. Cooking these pancakes is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy them fresh or make them ahead of time for convenience. Embrace this versatile recipe and savor every bite of these delicious pancakes!

Print

German Potato Pancakes

German Potato Pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, are a delightful combination of crispy edges and fluffy interiors that evoke a sense of comfort in every bite. Perfect for any meal, these golden-brown pancakes can be served with traditional toppings like sour cream or applesauce. Easy to make and customizable, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 8 pancakes 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: German

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium starchy potatoes, grated (about 2 lbs)
  • 1 medium onion, finely grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil (or butter) for frying

Instructions

  1. Peel and grate the potatoes; squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine grated potatoes and onion. Add eggs and flour; mix until blended.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; ensure it's hot enough to sizzle when batter is added.
  5. Drop about a quarter cup of the mixture into the skillet for each pancake. Flatten slightly and fry until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side).
  6. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels if desired. Serve hot with sour cream or applesauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pancake (70g)
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: - For extra flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the mixture. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat in a toaster oven for crispiness.

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