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