Forktionary

German Potato Pancakes Recipe

These crispy German potato pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, are a family heirloom recipe passed down through generations! While grating the potatoes takes a bit of elbow grease, the incredible flavor and satisfying crunch are absolutely worth it. Learn the secrets to perfectly golden-brown pancakes, just like Oma used to make, with this easy-to-follow recipe. Get ready for a taste of tradition!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 516.9 kcal
Protein 31g
Rating 4.3 (3 Reviews)
German Potato Pancakes 21

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for German Potato Pancakes

  • 3 large potatoes (2 grated finely, 1 grated coarsely)
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion (finely grated)
  • All Purpose Flour
  • 1 large egg
  • Baking Powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, enough for shallow frying

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How to Make German Potato Pancakes

  1. Peel and grate 2 large potatoes on the fine side of a box grater, and 1 large potato on the coarse side. (This creates the perfect texture!)
  2. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy pancakes!
  3. Finely grate 1/2 medium yellow onion.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  5. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Don't overmix!
  6. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of potato mixture sizzles immediately.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, leaving space between each pancake.
  8. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip using a spatula.
  9. Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as applesauce or sour cream. Guten Appetit!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

23g

Fat

4g

Carbs

36g

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Starters Appetizers & Snacks Main Courses Breakfast & Brunch Main Dish / Dinner Sweets & Sides Side Dishes European Vegetarian Fall Recipes Baking 30 Minutes Or Less

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion For 1 Or 2 Low Protein Healthy Pancakes And Waffles Appetizers Breakfast Lunch Side Dishes Potatoes Vegetables German Jewish Ashkenazi European Finger Food Heirloom Historical Holiday Event Low Fat Vegetarian Stove Top Dietary Low Sodium Low Cholesterol Low Saturated Fat Low Calorie Comfort Food Healthy 2 Low In Something Taste Mood Equipment Number Of Servings Presentation