Ah! You’re talking about German potato pancakes, also known as “Kartoffelpuffer”. Let’s break it down clearly:
What Are German Potato Pancakes?
- Kartoffelpuffer are crispy, shallow-fried pancakes made from grated potatoes.
- They are a traditional dish in Germany, Austria, and parts of Eastern Europe.
- Usually served as savory or sweet, depending on toppings.
Ingredients
Typical ingredients include:
- Potatoes (grated, raw or partially cooked)
- Onion (optional, for flavor)
- Eggs (to bind)
- Flour or breadcrumbs (helps hold the mixture together)
- Salt and pepper
- Oil or butter for frying
How to Make Them
- Grate the potatoes and squeeze out excess water.
- Mix with onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Spoon the mixture into the pan, flattening it into small pancakes.
- Fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side).
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Savory: With sour cream, applesauce, or smoked salmon.
- Sweet: With powdered sugar, cinnamon, or fruit preserves.
- Side Dish: Often served with meat dishes or roasted vegetables.
Fun Fact
- Kartoffelpuffer are very similar to Jewish latkes, traditionally eaten during Hanukkah.
If you want, I can make a quick visual step-by-step guide for German potato pancakes, showing grating, mixing, frying, and serving—it makes it super easy to follow.
Do you want me to make that visual guide?
