Authentic German Grumbeerpannekuche (Potato Pancakes) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of potatoes
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of flour
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. Peel and grate the potatoes and onion.
  2. Place the grated potatoes and onion in a colander for about 10 minutes to drain the excess liquid.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the drained potatoes and onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  5. Using a spoon or your hands, form the potato mixture into small patties and place them in the heated frying pan.
  6. Cook the pancakes for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Drain the pancakes on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
  8. Serve the pancakes hot, as a side dish or as a main course.

Tools for making

  • Grater - To grate the potatoes and onion.
  • Colander - To drain the excess liquid from the grated potatoes and onion.
  • Large Bowl - To mix the ingredients together.
  • Frying Pan - To cook the potato pancakes.
  • Spoon or Hands - To form the potato mixture into patties.
  • Paper Towels - To drain the pancakes and remove excess oil.

Recipe variations

  • Adding grated cheese to the potato mixture before frying.
  • Incorporating chopped herbs like parsley or chives into the potato mixture.
  • Using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.
  • Replacing the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Adding cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the potato mixture for a meaty option.
  • Including finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
  • Experimenting with different spices such as paprika, cumin, or garlic powder to enhance the taste.
  • Serving the pancakes with sour cream, applesauce, or a savory sauce on the side.

Recipe overview

Grumbeerpannekuche is a traditional German pancake made with grated potatoes and onions, offering a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for any meal of the day. The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both experienced cooks and those new to the kitchen. The finished pancakes are delightfully crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and moist on the inside. With their savory flavors and satisfying texture, Grumbeerpannekuche can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, a filling lunch, or a comforting dinner. Get ready to prepare a dish that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Common questions

  1. How do I make the pancakes crispy? Make sure to drain the excess liquid from the grated potatoes and onion before mixing them with the other ingredients. Also, fry the pancakes in hot vegetable oil on medium heat until they turn golden brown.
  2. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour or any other type of flour you prefer.
  3. Can I add other ingredients to the pancake mixture? Absolutely! You can add chopped herbs, grated cheese, or cooked bacon to enhance the flavor of the pancakes.
  4. How many pancakes does this recipe make? This recipe yields approximately 10-12 pancakes, depending on the size of the patties.
  5. Can I prepare the mixture in advance? It is best to prepare the mixture just before frying the pancakes to prevent the potatoes from turning brown. However, you can refrigerate the mixture for up to 1 hour if needed.
  6. Can I reheat the pancakes? Yes, you can reheat the pancakes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grater - Used to grate the potatoes and onion.
  • Colander - Used to drain the excess liquid from the grated potatoes and onion.
  • Large Bowl - Used to mix the ingredients together.
  • Frying Pan - Used to cook the potato pancakes.
  • Spoon or Hands - Used to form the potato mixture into small patties before frying.
  • Paper Towels - Used to drain the pancakes and remove excess oil.

Origin stories

Hailing from the Saarland region in Germany's southwest, Grumbeerpannekuche or "potato pancakes" are a beloved traditional dish. These humble delights, typically made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour, are a testament to the region's agrarian past. In Saarland, where potatoes were once a staple food, farmers would have whipped up these simple, hearty pancakes as a way to use up their ample potato harvests. Nowadays, they're enjoyed all across the country, often served alongside apple sauce for a touch of sweetness to counterbalance their savory, crispy goodness. They're a delicious piece of history, connecting the denizens of modern Germany to their rural roots with each bite.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases after you click on affiliate product links (thanks for that). But we hope the links will be relevant and beneficial to you as well.