Go Back
German cuisine is renowned for its hearty and comforting dishes, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that warm the soul. Among the many beloved staples of this rich culinary tradition, potato pancakes, known as "Reibekuchen" or "Kartoffelpuffer," hold a special place in the hearts of many. These crispy, golden-brown delights are not only a popular street food but also a cherished dish served at family gatherings and festive occasions throughout Germany.

Authentic German Potato Pancakes

Craving a taste of Germany? Try these crispy authentic German potato pancakes! Made with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, onion, and eggs, these pancakes are easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Once fried to golden perfection, serve them hot with applesauce or sour cream for a delightful treat. Perfect as a snack or a side dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe! 🥔🥞

Ingredients
  

4 medium-sized russet potatoes (about 2 pounds)

1 small onion, finely grated

2 large eggs

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Oil (vegetable or canola) for frying

Applesauce or sour cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and grate them using a box grater or food processor. Once done, place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.

    Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold together easily.

      Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of the potato mixture into the oil; it should sizzle and bubble immediately.

        Form and Fry the Patties: Using a spoon or your hands, form the potato mixture into small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter) and carefully place them in the heated oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; this will prevent them from frying evenly.

          Crisp Up the Patties: Fry the pancakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to ensure they don’t burn.

            Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

              Serve: Serve the potato pancakes hot, with a side of applesauce or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6