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Crispy German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)

A tall stack of five golden-brown, crispy potato pancakes served on a white plate.
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Make authentic German Potato Pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, that achieve golden crispiness on the outside and a tender interior. This easy recipe delivers classic comfort food perfect for brunch or a side dish.

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
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Grate the peeled potatoes using the coarse side of a box grater. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth.
  2. Wrap the potatoes tightly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is key for crispy potato pancakes. Discard the liquid.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the dried grated potatoes, grated onion, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers (about 350°F).
  5. Drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form 3-inch pancakes. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until the edges are deeply golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove the potato pancakes from the skillet and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt immediately after frying.
  8. Serve the crispy German potato pancakes hot with your choice of applesauce or sour cream.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, press the grated potato mixture very firmly to remove all excess moisture before mixing in the other ingredients.
  • If you prefer a lighter option, you can cook these in an air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • These potato and onion pancakes are best eaten immediately after frying for maximum texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/potato-pancakes-best-recipe-crispy-perfection/