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German Potato Pancakes

"Kartoffelpuffer," are a savory delight that brings the comforting flavors of traditional German cuisine to your table.

Equipment

  • Box grater or food processor
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
  • Medium frying pan or skillet
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large potatoes russet or Yukon gold are ideal
  • 1 small onion grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil or butter for frying
  • Applesauce or sour cream for serving optional

Instructions
 

  • Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to achieving crispy pancakes.
  • Mix the Batter:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • Heat the Pan:
  • Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil or butter in a medium frying pan or skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
  • Form and Fry the Pancakes:
  • Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and drop it into the hot pan. Use the back of the spoon to flatten it into a pancake, about 1/4 inch thick. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  • Serve:
  • Serve the German Potato Pancakes hot, with applesauce or sour cream on the side, if desired.
  • Prep Time:
  • 15 minutes
  • Cook Time:
  • 20 minutes
  • Total Time:
  • 35 minutes
  • Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings):
  • Calories: 200
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 26g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • These German Potato Pancakes are a versatile and tasty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed on their own or as a side, they bring a taste of Germany to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for any meal, these pancakes are crispy, golden, and simply delicious!