German Potato Pancakes

These German Potato Pancakes are the perfect combination of crispy edges and tender centers. With a savory flavor that’s both hearty and comforting, this dish brings authentic German flavors straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these crispy potato pancakes are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, golden-brown on the outside and soft on the inside, these German Potato Pancakes are an irresistible treat. Made with just a few simple ingredients like russet potatoes, onion, and egg, this recipe brings out the natural flavors of the potatoes while adding a satisfying crunch. You can enjoy them as a savory snack or side dish, or top them with a variety of sauces like sour cream or applesauce for an added burst of flavor. Quick to make and utterly delicious, these pancakes are sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb russet potatoes

• 1 small yellow onion

• Pinch of salt (plus more for seasoning)

• Pinch of black pepper (for savory pancakes)

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 large egg

• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onion:

• Wash and peel the potatoes. Grate them into a bowl using the large grating side of a box grater.

• Grate the onion into the same bowl with the potatoes.

2. Remove Excess Liquid:

• If there’s excess liquid pooling in the potato mixture, drain off as much as possible. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press the mixture and squeeze out any excess moisture.

3. Make the Batter:

• Add a pinch of salt, pepper (if making savory pancakes), flour, and egg to the potato-onion mixture.

• Use your hands to thoroughly mix everything together into a thick batter.

4. Fry the Pancakes:

• Heat 1-2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet.

• For each pancake, scoop about 2 tbsp of the potato batter into the hot oil, then flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or spatula.

• Fry the pancakes for 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and crispy on both sides. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Double Fry for Extra Crisp:

• Once all pancakes are fried once, re-fry them for an extra 30-60 seconds per side for an extra crunch.

6. Serve:

• Serve the potato pancakes immediately while hot and crispy. Top with applesauce, brown sugar, sour cream, yogurt sauce, or any other desired toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 pancakes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs or spices: To change up the flavor, try adding finely chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to the batter, or sprinkle in some garlic powder or paprika.

• Make them sweet: If you prefer a sweet version, skip the pepper and salt, and add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter. Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Use different toppings: Traditional toppings like applesauce or sour cream work great, but you can also try yogurt, smoked salmon, or sautéed vegetables for a savory twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pancakes in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make these pancakes in advance?

While potato pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also cook and refrigerate them, then reheat before serving.

Can I use a different type of potato?

While russet potatoes are ideal for potato pancakes due to their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or other potatoes in a pinch. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still work.

Can I make these pancakes vegan?

Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), and use a plant-based oil for frying to make these pancakes vegan.

Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze the pancakes! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Can I make these pancakes larger or smaller?

Absolutely! You can adjust the size of the pancakes depending on your preference. For smaller pancakes, use about 1 tablespoon of batter per pancake; for larger ones, use about 3 tablespoons.

Do I have to double fry them?

Double frying is optional, but it ensures an extra crispy texture. If you prefer, you can skip this step and still have delicious, crispy pancakes.

Conclusion

These German Potato Pancakes are a simple and satisfying dish that delivers crispy, golden-brown perfection with every bite. Whether served as a side dish or as the main event, these pancakes are sure to impress with their authentic flavor and texture. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this comforting treat any time. Try them today for a taste of classic German comfort food!