German Potato Pancakes

German potato pancakes, known as Reibekuchen or Kartoffelpuffer, are crispy, golden-brown fritters made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour. They’re often served sweet with applesauce or savory with sour cream or smoked salmon.

Here’s a classic recipe:

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German Potato Pancakes (Reibekuchen / Kartoffelpuffer)

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (about 900g) potatoes (starchy type like Russet)

• 1 small onion

• 2 eggs

• 2–4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Oil for frying (like canola or sunflower)

Optional toppings:

• Applesauce (traditional)

• Sour cream

• Chives or green onions

• Smoked salmon

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Instructions:

1. Grate the potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor.

2. Drain excess liquid: Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

3. Mix the grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

4. Heat oil (about 1/4 inch deep) in a skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan, flattening each into a pancake shape.

6. Fry 3–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

7. Drain on paper towels, and keep warm in the oven if needed.

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Would you like a sweet version, a variation with zucchini or cheese, or tips for making them extra crispy?