Quick and Easy Potato Pancakes Recipe – German-Style and Deliciously Crispy

If you’re looking for a simple, mouthwatering dish that’s both crispy and comforting, this German Potato Pancakes recipe will have you hooked from the first bite! These pancakes are perfectly golden on the outside, with a soft, flavorful interior. Whether served with a dollop of sour cream or some sweet apple sauce, these crispy German potato pancakes are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish. And, best of all, you can make them right at home with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

Photo byMMM Recipes

I first fell in love with these pancakes during a trip to Germany, where they’re often served at street markets as a quick and hearty snack. Their versatility – you can serve them savory or sweet – made them an instant favorite for me. I’ve since perfected this easy homemade German pancake recipe and am thrilled to share it with you. Special credit goes to MMM Recipes for inspiring this amazing dish.

The History of German Potato Pancakes

These delicious pancakes, known as "Kartoffelpuffer" in Germany, have been a staple of German cuisine for centuries. Traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season, they’re now a beloved dish throughout the year. The use of shredded potatoes, combined with eggs, onion, and flour, gives these pancakes their unique texture and taste. They are often served with a variety of toppings, making them a highly versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients:

• 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

Instructions:

1. Prep the Potatoes: First, peel and shred the potatoes using a grater. The secret to achieving perfectly crispy pancakes lies in removing as much moisture as possible. Use a cloth or cheesecloth to squeeze out the excess liquid from the potatoes. This step is crucial for a crispy, golden finish.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried shredded potatoes with the finely chopped onion, beaten eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape.
3. Fry the Pancakes: Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan. Flatten each one with the back of a spoon to form a pancake. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are beautifully golden and crispy.
4. Drain and Serve: Once the pancakes are crisp and golden, remove them from the pan and let them drain on a paper towel to soak up any excess oil. Serve them immediately while they're hot, with your choice of apple sauce or sour cream for dipping.

Cooking Tips:

• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it's too cold, the pancakes will soak up too much oil and become soggy.
• Perfect Pairing: These pancakes pair wonderfully with a savory topping like sour cream or a sweet touch like applesauce. Try both to see which one you like best!
• Add a Twist: Want to spice things up? You can add herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor.

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Did you love this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your German Potato Pancakes turned out! Share this recipe with friends and follow me for more easy, delicious recipes. I can't wait to see what you create!