Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crispy German Reibekuchen – The Best Potato Pancakes Ever!


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Benjamin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 pancakes 1x

Description

These German Potato Pancakes (Reibekuchen) are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor! Made with grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and seasonings, they’re pan-fried to crunchy perfection. Whether served with applesauce for a sweet touch or sour cream for a savory bite, these traditional German pancakes are a must-try for any potato lover. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a side dish, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Potato Pancakes:

  • 4 large starchy potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and grated
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For Serving (Optional):

    • Applesauce
    • Sour cream
    • Smoked salmon
    • Fresh chives

Instructions

  • Prepare the Potatoes:
    • Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
    • Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
  • Mix the Batter:
    • In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
    • Stir until well mixed.
  • Heat the Oil:
    • In a large skillet, heat ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  • Fry the Pancakes:
    • Take about ¼ cup of potato mixture and shape into a small pancake.
    • Place in the hot oil and flatten slightly with a spatula.
    • Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
    • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
    • Serve hot with applesauce, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes create the best crispy texture.
  • Remove Moisture: Squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent soggy pancakes.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches for even cooking.
  • Keep Warm: Place cooked pancakes in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish, Breakfast
  • Method: Pan-fried
  • Cuisine: German