German Potato Pancakes, or “Kartoffelpuffer,” are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. Made with grated potatoes and a few simple ingredients, they offer a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. These pancakes are not only versatile but also pair wonderfully with Bratwurst sausage for a hearty dinner. Adding cranberry sauce and maple syrup gives a sweet and savory balance that’s simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the recipe and make these delicious German Potato Pancakes from scratch.
Ingredients
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and grated
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Cranberry sauce (for serving)
Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Grate the Potatoes: Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. Place the grated potatoes in a large bowl of cold water to prevent them from turning brown and to remove excess starch.
Chop the Onion: Finely chop the onion and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Drain the Potatoes: Drain the grated potatoes in a colander and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Add Potatoes and Onion: Stir the grated potatoes and chopped onion into the egg mixture until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Fry the Pancakes
Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Form the Pancakes: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the potato mixture and form it into a patty. Place the patty in the hot oil and flatten it slightly with a spatula. Repeat with the remaining mixture, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
Fry Until Golden: Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
