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German Potato Pancakes

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 pancakes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: German
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) are crispy, golden-fried pancakes made from grated potatoes and onion, traditionally served with applesauce or sour cream. This rustic German comfort food is simple, satisfying, and perfect as a side dish or snack.


Ingredients

  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
  • 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
  • Optional: applesauce, sour cream, chopped herbs for serving

Instructions

  1. Peel and grate the potatoes. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the grated potatoes with the grated onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture for each pancake into the skillet and flatten gently with a spatula.
  5. Fry each pancake for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Transfer the cooked pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. Serve hot with applesauce or sour cream, and garnish with herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Be sure to thoroughly squeeze the grated potatoes to avoid soggy pancakes.
  • Keep pancakes warm in a low oven (about 200°F) while frying the rest.
  • For added flavor, mix in garlic, grated carrot, or fresh herbs.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pancakes
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg