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German Potato Pancakes

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: German
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These crispy German potato pancakes, known as Reibekuchen or Kartoffelpuffer, are golden-brown on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack, they’re traditionally served with applesauce or sour cream.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 medium onion, peeled
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Grate the Potatoes & Onion:
    Using a box grater or food processor, grate the potatoes and onion. Place the mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
  2. Mix the Batter:
    Transfer the drained potatoes and onion to a large bowl. Add the eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until well combined.
  3. Heat the Oil:
    In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Fry the Pancakes:
    Scoop 2–3 tablespoons of the potato mixture per pancake into the hot oil. Flatten gently with the back of a spoon to form small, thin pancakes.
  5. Cook Until Golden:
    Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
  6. Drain & Serve:
    Transfer the cooked pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with applesauce or sour cream.

Notes

  • Crispier Pancakes: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the potatoes.
  • Flavor Boost: Add chopped chives or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Reheating Tip: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.