German Potato Pancakes

 

German Potato Pancakes: Crispy, Golden, and Perfectly Comforting

If you love crispy, golden potatoes with a satisfying crunch and a tender inside, then German Potato Pancakes (also known as Kartoffelpuffer) are a must-try! This traditional recipe has been a beloved comfort food across Germany for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner, these pancakes bring simple ingredients together to create something truly special.

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🥔 What Are German Potato Pancakes?

German Potato Pancakes are thin, crispy patties made primarily from grated potatoes mixed with onions, eggs, and a little flour or matzo meal to bind everything together. Fried to golden perfection, they’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Traditionally served with applesauce or sour cream, they balance savory and sweet flavors wonderfully.

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🥄 Ingredients You’ll Need

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and grated)

• Onion (finely grated or chopped)

• Eggs (to bind the batter)

• Flour or matzo meal

• Salt and pepper for seasoning

• Oil or butter for frying

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🍳 How to Make German Potato Pancakes

1. Grate the potatoes and onion: Use a box grater or food processor, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is key for crispiness!

2. Mix the batter: Combine grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper until well blended.

3. Heat the oil: Use enough oil or butter to cover the bottom of your frying pan.

4. Fry pancakes: Spoon batter into hot oil and flatten gently with a spatula. Cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Drain and serve: Place cooked pancakes on paper towels to drain excess oil.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a side of applesauce.

• Savory: Top with smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and fresh dill.

• Sweet: Sprinkle with powdered sugar and enjoy with fresh berries or honey.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, try adding a little cornstarch to the batter.

• Swap onions for scallions or chives for a different flavor.

• Use sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic.

• Make mini pancakes for appetizers or party snacks.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

German Potato Pancakes are comfort food at its finest—easy to make, budget-friendly, and utterly delicious. They bring a little piece of traditional German cooking to your kitchen and are sure to become a family favorite.