German Potato Pancakes Recipe (Crispy and Delicious)

Oh, how I treasure those cozy, heartfelt meals that bring us all back to the kitchen table with smiles and warm conversations. Today, I am beyond thrilled to share with you a recipe that’s close to my heart—the classic German Potato Pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer. They’re crispy, they’re hearty, and they’re just pure comfort food goodness!

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to enjoy these delightful pancakes at my grandmother’s home. Each crispy bite was a taste of tradition, handcrafted with love and a touch of nostalgia. Now, I’m bringing this piece of heritage right to your kitchen with a promise of simplicity and flavor that will gather everyone around your table!

Ingredients

To whip up these crispy delights, you’ll need:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and shredded
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Apple sauce or sour cream, for serving

How to Make German Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. After peeling and shredding the potatoes, use a clean cloth or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible—this is key for achieving that perfect crispiness!
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded potatoes, chopped onion, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder until well combined.

Step 2: Fry the Pancakes

1. Heat a good amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be about a quarter-inch deep.
2. For each pancake, spoon a heaping tablespoon of the potato mixture into the oil and flatten it out to form a pancake.
3. Fry each side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove the pancakes from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.

Helpful Tips

• Squeeze that Spud! Make sure to get as much moisture out of the potatoes as possible before mixing in the other ingredients. This step is crucial for that crave-worthy crisp!
• Hot and Ready: Keep your oil hot, but not smoking, to ensure each pancake cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.

Substitutions/Variations

• Gluten-Free? Swap the all-purpose flour for any gluten-free flour of your choice.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to add some garlic powder or smoked paprika to the batter for a little extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can fry the pancakes and then reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.

What’s the best way to serve these?

German Potato Pancakes are traditionally served with apple sauce or sour cream. Both add a lovely creamy contrast to the crunchy texture.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved these potato pancakes, you might also enjoy:

• Marinated Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Thank you for stopping by the kitchen today! Whether you’re making these German Potato Pancakes for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely delicious—what’s not to love? Dive into the recipe and let the flavors speak for themselves! Happy cooking, everyone!

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