Description
Crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, these German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) are a comforting classic made with grated potatoes, onions, and pantry staples. Perfect as a quick breakfast, hearty side, or savory snack, they’re naturally vegetarian and ready in minutes. Ideal for breakfast ideas, easy dinner sides, or cozy appetizer food ideas with a European twist.
Ingredients
800 g potatoes
1 small onion
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
2. Transfer the grated potatoes to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out all excess moisture.
3. Grate the onion and combine it with the potatoes in a large bowl.
4. Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
5. Heat 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten slightly with a spatula.
7. Fry each pancake for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
8. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
9. Garnish with parsley or chives if using. Serve hot with applesauce, sour cream, or mustard.
Notes
Use russet potatoes for the crispiest texture.
Squeeze the potatoes very well to avoid soggy pancakes.
For a gluten-free option, swap the flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 pancakes
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: potato pancakes, kartoffelpuffer, German recipes, easy snack, savory pancakes