German Potato Pancakes Recipe
Ingredients:
2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and grated
1 small onion, grated
2 large eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
Optional Serving Accompaniments:
Applesauce
Sour cream
Smoked salmon
Chopped chives
Preparation Steps:
Potato Preparation
Peel and grate potatoes
Immediately place grated potatoes in cold water
Drain thoroughly
Squeeze out excess moisture using cheesecloth
Pat potatoes completely dry
Mixing
Combine grated potatoes and onion
Add eggs, flour, salt, and pepper
Mix thoroughly until well combined
Frying
Heat vegetable oil in large skillet
Use about 1/4 cup batter per pancake
Flatten pancakes to thin consistency
Fry until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side)
Drain on paper towels
Cooking Tips
Use cast iron skillet for best results
Oil should be hot but not smoking
Maintain medium-high heat
Flip only once for crispy exterior
Serving Suggestions:
Serve immediately while hot and crispy
Yields approximately 12-15 pancakes
Perfect as appetizer or main course
Pro Tips:
Use starchy potatoes like Russet
Remove as much moisture as possible
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying
Keep pancakes warm in oven at 200°F
Nutritional Information:
Calories per pancake: Approximately 120-150
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Cultural Note: These potato pancakes are a traditional German dish known as “Kartoffelpuffer” or “Reibekuchen”, often served during festivals and family gatherings.