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Authentic Crispy German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

Close-up of three golden brown, crispy potato pancakes served on a white plate with a dollop of sour cream.
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Make traditional German potato pancakes, Kartoffelpuffer, that are crispy on the outside and tender inside. This recipe uses simple ingredients for a perfect side dish or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large Russet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 small yellow onion, peeled
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Applesauce or sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Grate the potatoes and onion using the coarse side of a box grater.
  2. Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist and squeeze firmly over a bowl to remove as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid.
  3. Transfer the dry potato and onion mixture to a medium bowl.
  4. Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
  6. Carefully drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form 3-inch pancakes. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  7. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove the pancakes from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve immediately with applesauce or sour cream.

Notes

  • Squeezing the liquid out of the potatoes is the most important step for achieving a crispy pancake.
  • Keep the oil temperature consistent; if it smokes, reduce the heat. If the pancakes are not browning, increase the heat slightly.
  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly dust the drained pancakes with a tiny pinch of salt immediately after removing them from the oil.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://magazinemeal.com/crispy-potato-pancakes-german-recipe/