German Potato Pancakes
These German Potato Pancakes are a delicious, crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, and egg, they’re easy to prepare and full of flavor. Serve them with sour cream or apple sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 small onion
- 1 lb potatoes
- 1 medium-sized egg
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 pinch pepper
- 1 pinch salt
- Oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes and Onion:
- Grate onions and potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a bowl, beat the egg and add the grated onion, grated potatoes, flour, pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Form and Fry the Pancakes:
- Using a 1/4 cup scale, pour the potato mixture into the hot oil. Flatten the mixture with the back of a spoon to form a pancake shape.
- Fry the pancake for 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Repeat:
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil to the pan if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve the German potato pancakes hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream or apple sauce.
Notes
- For Extra Crispiness: You can add an extra pinch of flour to make the pancakes crispier.
- For a Savory Twist: Try adding a bit of garlic powder or fresh herbs to the batter for added flavor.
- Topping Variations: Serve with chive sour cream, applesauce, or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra richness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is an affordable way to enjoy a classic dish that is both comforting and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create crispy, golden-brown pancakes that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings like sour cream, applesauce, or even smoked salmon. Plus, it’s a great way to use up potatoes, making it both practical and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 small onion
- 1 pound potatoes
- 1 medium-sized egg
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 pinch pepper
- 1 pinch salt
- Oil (for frying)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Grate the onion and potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- In a bowl, beat the egg. Add the grated onions, potatoes, flour, pepper, and salt, and mix well until combined.
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Using a 1/4 cup measure, pour the mixture into the hot oil and flatten it to form a pancake shape.
- Fry each pancake for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil to the pan if needed.
- Serve the pancakes hot, topped with your favorite condiments, such as sour cream or applesauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Cheese-filled: Add some grated cheese to the mixture for an extra cheesy twist.
- Herb-infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add extra flavor.
- Sweet version: For a sweet twist, serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and a dollop of apple sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pancakes on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet on low heat.
FAQs
Can I make these potato pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before frying. Just make sure to give it a good stir before cooking.
Can I freeze German potato pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze cooked pancakes. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if you prefer a gluten-free version of these pancakes.
Can I use a food processor to grate the potatoes and onions?
Yes, a food processor makes grating the potatoes and onions much quicker and easier, but a box grater will work fine as well.
How can I make the pancakes crispier?
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the pancakes to steam instead of crisping up.
Are German potato pancakes the same as latkes?
While both are similar, latkes are traditionally associated with Jewish cuisine, while German potato pancakes are a broader German dish. The preparation and seasonings can vary slightly between the two.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a unique twist. They will give the pancakes a sweeter flavor and a slightly different texture.
How do I know when the pancakes are done?
The pancakes should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can test them by cutting into one to check if it is cooked through.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make these pancakes vegan, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use a plant-based oil for frying.
Conclusion
German Potato Pancakes are a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional, flavorful dish that is both satisfying and budget-friendly. Whether served with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite topping, these pancakes are sure to be a hit at the table. Simple to make and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion!
