Sizzling Reibekuchen Recipe: Golden Potato Pancake Magic

German potato pancakes might sound simple, but these crispy golden reibekuchen pack a serious flavor punch that’ll make you fall in love instantly.

Grated potatoes and onions combine into a delightful mixture perfect for weekend brunches or cozy dinners.

Crisp edges and soft centers create a textural harmony that speaks to traditional german comfort cooking.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this beloved recipe, passing down techniques through family kitchens.

Salt and pepper provide subtle seasoning while allowing the potatoes’ natural richness to shine through.

Each golden-brown disc promises a delectable experience that connects you to authentic european culinary traditions.

You won’t be able to resist these irresistible pancakes once they emerge hot and crackling from the skillet.

Top Questions On Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• What are Reibekuchen?

Reibekuchen are traditional German potato pancakes made from grated potatoes and onions, then fried until golden and crispy. They’re a popular street food and comfort dish in Germany.

• Can I make Reibekuchen gluten-free?

Yes, replace wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives like rice flour or cornstarch to create a gluten-free version of these potato pancakes.

• How do I prevent my Reibekuchen from falling apart?

Squeeze out excess moisture from the potatoes and ensure the batter is well-mixed with enough flour to help bind the ingredients together. Use medium-high heat and avoid moving the pancakes too soon while frying.

Reasons To Crave Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• Customize with Ease: Mix in your favorite herbs or spices to create a personalized flavor profile that suits your taste buds perfectly.
• Family Comfort Food: These crispy potato pancakes bring everyone together, offering a nostalgic and satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Prepare these golden beauties in minimal time, making them an ideal solution for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Serve as a hearty breakfast, tasty side dish, or light main course that works for casual family dinners or weekend brunches with friends.

What Goes In Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that form the base of these crispy pancakes.
• Onions: Add depth of flavor and aromatic quality to the potato pancakes.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the Reibekuchen.

• Flour, Cornstarch: Help create a crispy exterior and hold the pancakes together.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the pancakes.

• Vegetable Oil: Provides the medium for frying and helps achieve a golden, crispy texture.
• Sour Cream, Applesauce: Traditional accompaniments that complement the savory pancakes with cool and sweet notes.

How To Make Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

Step 1: Prepare Potato Base

Grab fresh potatoes and a sharp peeler. Grate potatoes into ultra-thin shreds using a box grater.

Squeeze out every drop of moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This prevents soggy pancakes.

Finely chop onions and blend them seamlessly with potato shreds.

Step 2: Create Delicious Batter

• Egg
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir ingredients until they form a smooth, consistent mixture.

The batter should hold together without being too runny or thick. Add extra flour if it seems watery or splash water if too dense.

Step 3: Heat Cooking Surface

Select a heavy skillet and pour vegetable oil. Set heat to medium-high.

Wait until oil shimmers and becomes hot. Test readiness by dropping a tiny batter dollop – it should sizzle immediately upon contact.

Step 4: Fry Golden Pancakes

Scoop two tablespoons of batter for each pancake. Gently place in hot oil and flatten into thin, round shapes.

Cook approximately 3-4 minutes per side until edges turn golden brown and centers become crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer pancakes onto paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Plate immediately while hot. Accompany with tangy sour cream or sweet applesauce for a delightful German-inspired treat.

Helpful Hints For Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• Squeeze potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water, ensuring maximum crispiness and preventing soggy reibekuchen.
• Maintain medium-high oil temperature for perfectly golden, crisp edges without burning the pancakes.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and achieving that classic crunchy exterior.
• Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the batter for extra flavor complexity and visual appeal.
• Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture and binding properties.

Tasty Twists On Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• Herb-Infused Reibekuchen: Add fresh chopped chives, dill, or parsley to the batter for an aromatic herb flavor that enhances the classic potato pancake.
• Cheese-Loaded Potato Pancakes: Sprinkle grated cheddar or parmesan into the mixture before frying, creating pockets of melted cheese within the crispy exterior.
• Spicy Jalapeño Version: Dice fresh jalapeños and mix into the batter for a zesty kick that adds heat and excitement to the traditional recipe.
• Sweet Potato Alternative: Replace regular potatoes with grated sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter profile and additional nutritional benefits.

Perfect Pairings For Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• Elevate Potato Flavor Companions
• Pair with crisp German pilsner to complement the golden, crunchy texture and cut through the richness of the fried pancakes.
• Create Wine Harmony
• Select a dry Riesling with bright acidity that balances the hearty potato flavors and cleanses the palate between bites.
• Match Refreshing Side Beverage
• Serve with sparkling apple cider to echo the applesauce's sweetness and provide a light, effervescent contrast to the dense potato pancake.
• Enhance Protein Partners
• Add smoked salmon or herbed chicken breast alongside the Reibekuchen to transform the dish from a simple side into a complete, satisfying meal.

How To Store And Reheat Crispy Golden Reibekuchen With Sour Cream And Applesauce

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze: Wrap individual pancakes in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Label with date for tracking.
• Reheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F. Arrange pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 5-7 minutes until crispy and heated through.
• Reheat Skillet: Warm a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes per side, adding a touch of oil to restore crispiness.

Crispy Golden Reibekuchen with Sour Cream and Applesauce Recipe

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4.6 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy golden reibekuchen showcase German comfort food at its finest, delighting palates with potato pancake perfection. Sour cream and applesauce complement these irresistible treats, inviting you to savor authentic flavors straight from a German kitchen.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (about 2 pounds / 907 grams), peeled and grated
• 1 medium onion, finely grated or chopped
• 1 large egg

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley

Cooking Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) vegetable oil
• Sour cream (for serving)
• Applesauce (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Meticulously grate raw potatoes into ultra-thin strips, then vigorously squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel to ensure maximum crispiness.
2. Finely mince onions and blend thoroughly with the drained potato shreds, creating a harmonious base mixture.
3. Incorporate egg, flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper into the potato-onion blend, whisking until achieving a consistent, smooth texture that holds together perfectly.
4. Warm vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to approximately 350°F, ensuring the surface shimmers with readiness for frying.
5. Carefully drop spoonfuls of potato mixture into the hot oil, gently pressing each portion into a thin, circular shape using a spatula.
6. Fry each pancake for 3-4 minutes per side, watching for a deep golden-brown color and crisp, lacy edges that signal perfect doneness.
7. Transfer freshly fried reibekuchen onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain optimal crunchiness.
8. Serve immediately alongside tangy sour cream and sweet applesauce, presenting a classic German comfort dish with contrasting accompaniments.

Notes

• Squeeze potatoes thoroughly to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy pancakes.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika for extra flavor depth and aromatic complexity.
• Keep oil temperature consistent around 350-375°F to achieve perfectly golden, crisp edges without burning.
• Customize dietary needs by using gluten-free flour or replacing egg with a flax egg for vegan variations.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg