German Potato Cakes

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: German

German potato cakes are crispy, golden-fried treats with tender potato and onion flavors, perfect for a hearty snack or meal, especially served with applesauce.

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Ingredients

  • 10 large potatoes
  • 2 onions
  • 4 eggs
  • 1.5 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • olive oil

Instructions

  1. Chop potatoes, onions, eggs, flour, and baking powder in a food processor and pulse until combined.
  2. Put a generous amount of olive oil in a pan and heat over medium heat.
  3. Drop a ladle of the potato mixture into the hot oil and press flat to form a cake.
  4. Cook until the edges turn brown, then turn and cook the other side until golden.
  5. Serve hot with applesauce.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crispier texture, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes before mixing. You can substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, replace the flour with a gluten-free blend. Adding herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor of your potato cakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the German Potato Cakes hot, accompanied by a side of applesauce for a sweet contrast. They also pair nicely with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables, making for a balanced meal. For a unique twist, serve with Special Fruit Salad Dressing drizzled over the cakes.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover potato cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Potato Cakes contains roughly 1767 calories, with 31g protein, 281g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (101% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).

1767 kcal 88% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 30.6g 61% DV
Total Fat 57.5g 74% DV
Carbs 281.3g 100% DV
Fiber 17.7g 63% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 644mg 28% DV
Potassium 4728.8mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 129mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31.5mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 64.5mg 72% DV
Calcium 444.8mg 34% DV
Iron 9mg 50% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the potato mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Make sure to give it a good stir before cooking, as some moisture may separate. However, it's best to cook them fresh for optimal texture and taste.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for making potato cakes, as they yield a fluffier texture. Waxy potatoes tend to be too moist and may not hold together as well. Experimenting with different varieties can also yield interesting flavors.

Can these potato cakes be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked potato cakes. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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