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–+ servings
German Potato Pancakes

Crispy German Potato Pancakes: A Comfort Food Classic

Enjoy the delightful taste of German Potato Pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, a nostalgic dish that's crispy on the outside and soft inside.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 pancakes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: German
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes Ideal for texture and flavor
  • 1 finely grated onion Adds moisture and flavor
  • 2 large eggs Binds ingredients
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour Almond flour or gluten-free flour can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Optional for airy texture
  • 1 pinch salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 pinch black pepper Freshly ground preferred
  • 1 pinch nutmeg Optional, substitute with cinnamon if desired
For Frying
  • 0.25 inch vegetable oil or lard Coconut oil is an option
For Serving
  • applesauce or sour cream Delicious toppings

Equipment

  • Box grater
  • large bowl
  • skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for German Potato Pancakes
  1. Grate the Potatoes: Coarsely grate about 2 pounds of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes and transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Drain Excess Moisture: Place grated potatoes in a clean towel and squeeze out moisture.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In the bowl, mix drained potatoes with grated onion, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
  4. Preheat the Cookware: Heat oil or lard in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
  5. Form the Pancakes: Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to scoop and flatten the potato mixture into the hot oil.
  6. Fry Until Golden Brown: Fry pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  7. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb oil.
  8. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot with applesauce or sour cream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pancakeCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, serve fresh and hot as they provide the best texture.

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