Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for German Potato Pancakes uses just a few basic ingredients – potatoes, onion, egg, flour, and oil – to create crispy, golden pancakes with a fluffy interior. The double-frying method ensures a perfect crunch, making these pancakes irresistible. You can customize them with sweet toppings like applesauce or savory options such as sour cream or bacon bits. These pancakes are a classic comfort food that will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for any meal or snack.
Ingredients
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1 lb russet potatoes
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1 small yellow onion
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Pinch of salt (plus more for seasoning)
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Pinch of black pepper (for savory pancakes)
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3 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 large egg
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Wash and peel the potatoes. Grate them using the large grating side of a box grater and place in a bowl. Grate the onion and add it to the same bowl.
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If there is excess liquid in the potato mixture, drain it off as much as possible.
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Add salt, pepper (if making savory pancakes), flour, and the egg to the potato-onion mixture. Mix thoroughly with your hands to form a thick batter.
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Heat 1-2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Scoop about 2 tbsp of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening it slightly with a spoon or spatula.
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Fry the pancakes for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
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After all pancakes are fried once, re-fry them for 30-60 seconds per side to add extra crunch.
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Serve immediately while hot and crispy with your choice of toppings, such as applesauce, sour cream, or brown sugar.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8 pancakes
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Sweet Toppings: For a sweet twist, top with applesauce, brown sugar, or a drizzle of honey.
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Savory Toppings: Add sour cream, yogurt sauce, or sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a savory flavor.
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Add-Ins: For extra flavor, you can mix in garlic, scallions, or herbs into the potato batter.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the pancakes in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side to bring back their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their starchy texture, but you can substitute with other potatoes if needed.
Do I have to double-fry the pancakes?
Double-frying the pancakes is optional, but it gives them an extra crispy texture. You can skip this step if you prefer a softer pancake.
Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pancakes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in a skillet before serving.
How do I keep the pancakes crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking the pancakes too high. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to allow excess oil to drain.
Can I freeze these pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes. Lay them out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.
Can I add cheese to the batter?
Yes, you can mix shredded cheese into the batter for an added flavor boost.
What other toppings go well with these pancakes?
In addition to applesauce and sour cream, you can serve them with chives, yogurt sauce, or even smoked salmon for a more sophisticated twist.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the pancakes gluten-free.
Can I make these pancakes vegan?
To make the pancakes vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based oil for frying.
What should I serve these pancakes with?
These pancakes can be served as a side dish with any meal or as a main dish with toppings of your choice.
Conclusion
German Potato Pancakes are the ultimate comfort food, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Whether you serve them with sweet or savory toppings, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. This easy recipe brings the delicious flavors of Germany into your kitchen and is perfect for any time of the day. Make a batch today and enjoy a taste of tradition!
German Potato Pancakes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast, Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
German Potato Pancakes, also known as “Reibekuchen,” are crispy, golden delights that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These pancakes are made with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, onion, egg, and flour, creating a crispy exterior and soft interior. Whether you prefer them with sweet applesauce or savory sour cream, these versatile pancakes are an irresistible comfort food that’s sure to be a hit. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they bring the delicious flavors of Germany to your kitchen.
Ingredients
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)
Instructions
-
Wash and peel the potatoes. Grate them using the large grating side of a box grater and place in a bowl. Grate the onion and add it to the same bowl.
-
If there is excess liquid in the potato mixture, drain it off as much as possible.
-
Add salt, pepper (for savory pancakes), flour, and the egg to the potato-onion mixture. Mix thoroughly with your hands to form a thick batter.
-
Heat 1-2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Scoop about 2 tbsp of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening it slightly with a spoon or spatula.
-
Fry the pancakes for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
-
After all pancakes are fried once, re-fry them for 30-60 seconds per side to add extra crunch.
-
Serve immediately while hot and crispy with your choice of toppings, such as applesauce, sour cream, or brown sugar.
Notes
Sweet Toppings: For a sweet twist, top with applesauce, brown sugar, or a drizzle of honey.
Add-Ins: Mix in garlic, scallions, or herbs into the potato batter for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating: Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side to bring back their crispiness.
