Crispy German Potato Pancakes Recipe

German potato pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, are a delicious and crispy dish made primarily from grated potatoes. These pancakes are perfect as a side dish or a snack, often served with applesauce or sour cream.

This recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it easy to whip up a batch for any occasion.

Traditional German Potato Pancakes

German potato pancakes, known as Kartoffelpuffer, are a delightful dish that captures the essence of comfort food. These pancakes are made primarily from grated potatoes, which are transformed into crispy, golden-brown delights through a simple frying process.

The combination of grated potatoes and onions creates a wonderful texture and flavor profile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or a snack, these pancakes are sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients for the Perfect Pancakes

To create these crispy delights, you will need a handful of basic ingredients. The star of the dish is, of course, the potatoes, which should be peeled and grated to achieve the right consistency.

Along with potatoes, grated onion adds a subtle sweetness, while an egg helps bind the mixture together. A touch of flour, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors, and vegetable oil is essential for frying to achieve that crispy exterior.

Preparation Steps

Preparing these potato pancakes is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps. Start by peeling and grating the potatoes, then squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness.

Next, combine the grated potatoes with the onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until everything is well incorporated, creating a cohesive batter ready for frying.

Frying to Perfection

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with a spatula. Fry each pancake for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

After frying, place the pancakes on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help maintain their crispy texture while you prepare to serve them.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy German potato pancakes are best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream for a tangy contrast or alongside applesauce for a touch of sweetness.

The combination of flavors and textures makes for a delightful eating experience, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Pair them with a refreshing salad or a hearty soup to complete your meal.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these potato pancakes contains approximately 180 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 3 grams of protein. They are a satisfying option that can be enjoyed without guilt, especially when served with wholesome accompaniments.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional dish to impress your guests or a comforting meal for yourself, these crispy German potato pancakes are a fantastic choice that brings a taste of Germany to your table.

Traditional German Potato Pancakes

These potato pancakes are made with grated potatoes, onions, and eggs, then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 medium onion, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Applesauce or sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.
4. Fry Pancakes: Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of a spatula. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain: Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve: Serve the potato pancakes hot with applesauce or sour cream on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 pancakes
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 20g