German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)
German Potato Pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, are a beloved classic that brings the comforting flavors of Germany to your table. With their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, these potato pancakes can be enjoyed as a savory side dish or a delightful breakfast treat. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, they are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve them hot with sour cream and chives or applesauce for a sweet contrast—either way, they’re sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Savory Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium potatoes (550g / 1.2lb)
- 1 small yellow onion (90g)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 medium egg
- 1/4 cup cooking oil (for frying)
- Chopped chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash and peel the potatoes; grate them finely using a box grater or food processor.
- Place grated potatoes in a kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture; set aside.
- Grate the onion on the large side of the grater and squeeze out extra liquid with the towel.
- In a bowl, mix grated potatoes and onions with flour, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and egg until combined.
- Drain most of the liquid from the mixture but reserve the starch at the bottom; add back into the batter.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; drop in about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake, flattening slightly.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy; drain excess oil on a wire rack.
- Serve hot topped with sour cream and garnished with chives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 156
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 28mg