These German Potato Pancakes are a crispy, golden treat that my granddaddy adored for their simplicity, flavor, and versatility. With basic ingredients that come together quickly, these potato pancakes are a fantastic choice for any meal or snack. Made with grated onion and potato, they’re seasoned with just a pinch of salt and pepper, and fried to perfection. Serve them hot and enjoy that irresistible crunch on the outside with a soft, tender center. This classic recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, too!
Ingredients
1 small onion: Adds a savory depth and subtle sweetness.
1 pound potatoes: Provides the pancake base, with a crispy outside and tender interior.
1 medium-sized egg: Binds the mixture together for easy frying.
3 tablespoons of flour: Adds structure and helps create a perfect pancake shape.
1 pinch of pepper: Adds mild heat and balances the savory flavor.
1 pinch of salt: Enhances the taste of the pancakes.
Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola to achieve a crisp, golden crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Grate the Onion and Potatoes: Use a grater or food processor to finely grate the onion and potatoes. To ensure a crispier pancake, squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes with a clean kitchen cloth or paper towel.
Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the egg. Add the grated onion and potatoes, flour, pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is well-combined and the mixture forms a thick batter.
Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat a layer of oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Form and Fry the Pancakes: Using a ¼ cup measuring scoop, pour a portion of the batter into the hot oil and gently flatten it to create a pancake shape. Fry for about 3 minutes per side or until each pancake is golden brown and crispy.
Repeat and Serve: Continue with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed. Serve the pancakes hot with your choice of sour cream, applesauce, or fresh chives.
Why This Recipe Works
These German Potato Pancakes combine just a few ingredients to deliver a deliciously crispy, savory pancake. The onion adds a slight sweetness, while the flour and egg bind the mixture perfectly. Fried to golden perfection, each bite is a satisfying blend of crunch and softness, making these pancakes both affordable and delicious.
Pro Tips for Perfect Potato Pancakes
- Remove excess water from the potatoes for the crispiest texture.
- Maintain medium heat to ensure the pancakes cook through without burning.
- Flatten the pancakes gently to achieve even cooking and crispy edges.
Serving Suggestions
Traditionally, German potato pancakes are served with sour cream or applesauce. You could also add smoked salmon, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of green onions for an added burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
These German Potato Pancakes are an easy, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any meal. They’re simple, satisfying, and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Try this recipe and bring a touch of nostalgia and deliciousness to your table—just like granddaddy loved!