German Potato Pancakes

 German potato pancakes

Step 3: Heat the Oil

  1. In a large skillet, pour in about ¼ inch of vegetable oil.
  2. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
    Tip: To test if the oil is ready, drop a small bit of the mixture into the pan—it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Fry the Pancakes

  1. Scoop about ¼ cup of the potato mixture for each pancake.
  2. Flatten it gently in the pan with a spatula to form a thin round.
  3. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove the pancakes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve the pancakes warm, traditionally with applesauce for a sweet contrast or sour cream for a savory twist.
  • Garnish with chives or parsley if you’d like to add a fresh touch.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip draining: Removing excess liquid from the potatoes is the secret to crispiness.
  • Serve immediately: Potato pancakes taste best hot and fresh from the skillet.
  • Keep warm in the oven: If making a big batch, place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven until ready to serve.

A Taste of Tradition

German potato pancakes are more than just a dish—they’re a link to generations of family cooking and festive traditions. Whether you enjoy them as a cozy weeknight meal or as a nostalgic holiday treat, each crispy bite delivers the warmth of classic German comfort food.


Would you like me to also add a baked version of German potato pancakes (a lighter alternative), or do you prefer sticking with the authentic fried method?

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