I Discovered the SECRET to Crispy German Potato Pancakes!
A German potato pancake, known as Kartoffelpuffer or Reibekuchen, is a savory, golden-brown pancake made from grated potatoes, grated or finely chopped onions, eggs, and flour. The mixture is seasoned with salt then fried in oil or butter until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These pancakes are typically served as a side dish or snack and can be enjoyed sweet with applesauce or powdered sugar, or savory with sour cream, smoked salmon, or herb dips. They’re a beloved comfort food in Germany, especially popular at Christmas markets and regional fairs.
It is also Ukrainian delicacy known as Deruny.
Here’s a traditional recipe for German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer):
Ingredients for 8 pancakes
6 medium-sized potatoes
1 small onion, finely grated
2 eggs
2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt to taste
Vegetable oil or clarified butter, for frying.
Optional:
Serve with applesauce, sour cream, or a sprinkle of sugar.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and grate them using a fine grater or food processor.
Place the grated potatoes in a sieve to drain the excess liquid into a bowl. Let the liquid sit for a few minutes, then carefully pour off the liquid, reserving the potato starch that settles at the bottom.
2. Mix the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, reserved starch or flour, grated onion, eggs, salt. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not overly runny. Add more flour if needed to bind the batter.
3. Heat the Pan:
Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add enough oil coat the bottom.
4. Cook the Pancakes:
Scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan for each pancake and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
Fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
5. Drain and Serve:
Remove the pancakes and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve immediately while hot, with your choice of toppings like applesauce, sour cream, or sugar.