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German Potato Pancakes Recipe

German Potato Pancakes Recipe


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4.9 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy german potato pancakes bring nostalgia from traditional German kitchens, offering a delightful blend of rustic charm and comforting flavors. Serve hot with applesauce or sour cream, and savor a taste of authentic culinary heritage that connects you directly to hearty European traditions.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Seasoning and Cooking Ingredients:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) vegetable oil for frying

Optional Serving Accompaniments:

  • Applesauce
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  1. Grate potatoes thoroughly and extract maximum moisture by wringing them in a clean cloth or paper towel, ensuring a crisp texture when cooking.
  2. Combine grated potatoes with finely chopped onion, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, blending ingredients until uniformly distributed.
  3. Prepare a large skillet by heating vegetable oil over medium-high heat, reaching approximately 350°F for optimal frying conditions.
  4. Carefully drop spoonfuls of potato mixture into hot oil, using the back of a spoon to flatten each pancake into a thin, even disk about 3-4 inches in diameter.
  5. Fry each potato pancake for 3-4 minutes per side, watching for a deep golden-brown color and crispy exterior, adjusting heat if needed to prevent burning.
  6. Remove pancakes using a slotted spatula and place on paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.
  7. Continue cooking remaining potato mixture, replenishing oil as necessary and maintaining consistent skillet temperature.
  8. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by traditional garnishes like applesauce or sour cream for enhanced flavor and authentic German presentation.

Notes

  • Squeeze potatoes thoroughly to achieve crispy, non-soggy pancakes that hold together perfectly during cooking.
  • Use starchy potatoes like Russet for best texture and binding, avoiding waxy varieties that can make pancakes fall apart.
  • Allow excess moisture removal prevents oil splattering and ensures golden, crunchy exteriors with light, tender interiors.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences for enhanced flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: German

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 315 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 230 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg