Liechtensteiner Kartoffelpuffer
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potato pancakes are a beloved side dish or snack. They are typically made with grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour, and fried until golden brown. Often served with applesauce or a dollop of sour cream.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Starchy potatoes(peeled and grated)
- 1 piece Medium onion(peeled and finely grated)
- 2 pieces Large eggs
- 120 g All-purpose flour(or spelt flour)
- 2 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Nutmeg(freshly ground, optional)
- Oil for frying(e.g., vegetable oil or clarified butter)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potato and onion mixture with the eggs, flour, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- 3
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 4
Carefully spoon portions of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form thin pancakes, about 5 inches in diameter.
- 5
Fry the potato pancakes for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- 6
Remove the cooked pancakes from the pan and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- 7
Serve the Kartoffelpuffer immediately while hot and crispy. They are traditionally served with applesauce or sour cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using starchy potatoes (like Russets or baking potatoes) will yield the best crispy texture.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the potato mixture; this is key to preventing greasy pancakes.
- ✓If the mixture seems too wet, you can add a tablespoon or two more flour.
- ✓Some people like to add a pinch of pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
🔄 Variations
- For a richer flavor, some recipes suggest using bacon fat for frying.
- A small amount of minced garlic can be added to the batter.
- Serve with a side of lingonberry jam or a simple herb dip.