German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 10–12 pancakes
Ingredients
2 pounds (about 900 g) potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled
1 medium onion
2 large eggs
¼ cup all-purpose flour (or potato starch for gluten-free)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil for frying
Instructions
1. Grate the Potatoes and Onion
Grate the potatoes and onion using the large holes of a box grater or food processor.
2. Remove Excess Moisture
Place the grated mixture into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
This step is important for crispy pancakes.
3. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine:
Grated potatoes and onion
Eggs
Flour
Salt
Black pepper
Mix well until evenly combined. The mixture should be moist but not watery.
4. Heat the Oil
Pour about ¼ inch of oil into a heavy skillet. Heat over medium-high heat until hot (a small drop of batter should sizzle immediately).
5. Fry the Pancakes
Scoop about ¼ cup of batter into the hot oil. Flatten gently with a spatula.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches.
6. Drain and Serve
Place cooked pancakes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Ideas
Applesauce
Sour cream
Yogurt
Smoked salmon
Chopped herbs
Storage
Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months with parchment between pancakes
Reheat: Oven or air fryer only (avoid microwave)
Variations
Add chopped parsley or chives
Mix in shredded cheese
Add paprika or garlic powder
Replace half the potato with grated zucchini
For sweet version: add a pinch of sugar and cinnamon

