German potato pancakes, known in Germany as Kartoffelpuffer, are one of those timeless comfort foods that have found their way into kitchens around the globe. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor, these pancakes offer a wonderful taste of German tradition and are surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients for German Potato Pancakes

  • 1 kg potatoes (choose starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for best results)
  • 1 egg
  • 200 g onion (about 1 medium onion)
  • A pinch of salt
  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 30 g wheat flour
  • Light olive oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prep the Vegetables:

Start by peeling the potatoes and the onion. Coarsely grate both using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean tea towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.

2. Mix the Batter:

In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onions. Add in the egg, a pinch of salt, and chopped parsley for color and freshness. Sprinkle over the wheat flour and mix everything together until you have a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture.

3. Heat the Pan:

Pour a generous layer of light olive oil into a large frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat.

4. Form and Fry the Pancakes:

Take a heaping spoonful of the potato mixture and flatten it gently into a pancake shape. Fry in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Place the cooked pancakes on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

5. Serve Hot and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while still warm and crispy. Traditionally, German potato pancakes are served with a side of apple sauce, sour cream, or even smoked salmon.

Tips for Perfect German Potato Pancakes

  • Use starchy potatoes for maximum crispiness
  • Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the potatoes before mixing—this extra step transforms the texture
  • Chop the parsley fresh for the best flavor
  • Adjust the salt to your personal taste, and try adding a pinch of black pepper or nutmeg for a twist

A Versatile Delight

These potato pancakes pair beautifully with a range of toppings. For a sweet touch, opt for apple sauce or cinnamon sugar. For something more savory, serve them with crème fraîche, chives, or even slices of cured ham.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

German potato pancakes are budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and always a hit at gatherings. Whether you're hosting a brunch, planning a family dinner, or simply craving something delicious, these crispy treats will not disappoint.

So next time you want to experience a taste of Germany, try your hand at homemade Kartoffelpuffer. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you're only moments away from enjoying this international favorite.

Source: https://recepten.servi.tn/duitse-aardappelpannenkoeken/