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Authentic Crispy German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

A tall stack of six golden-brown, crispy potato pancakes served on a white plate.
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Make German potato pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, that achieve a perfectly crisp, golden exterior and a tender, savory interior using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 small yellow onion, grated
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Grate the peeled potatoes using the coarse side of a box grater.
  2. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Gather the edges and twist tightly over the sink to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is key for crispiness.
  3. Transfer the dried, grated potato to a medium bowl. Add the grated onion, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet and heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers (about 350°F).
  5. Working in batches, drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil. Immediately flatten each mound slightly with the back of the spoon to form a pancake about 3 inches wide. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Fry for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until the potato pancakes are deep golden brown and crisp.
  7. Remove the Kartoffelpuffer from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve immediately with your preferred topping, such as applesauce or sour cream.

Notes

  • For the best crispiness, press the grated potatoes very firmly to remove moisture.
  • If you are using leftover mashed potatoes, you will need about 3 cups, and you can omit the flour entirely, using only one egg.
  • Maintain the oil temperature; if it is too cool, the pancakes will absorb too much oil and become soggy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishsymphony.com/crispy-potato-pancakes-recipe-kartoffelpuffer/