What is the main ingredient of German Kartoffelpuffer?

Potatoes are the main ingredient of German Kartoffelpuffer.

Kartoffelpuffer are crisp potato pancakes made by grating raw potatoes and mixing them with ingredients such as onion, egg, and flour or starch. The mixture is shaped into flat rounds and fried until browned and crunchy at the edges.

They are eaten across Germany under several regional names, including Reibekuchen and Reiberdatschi. Sweet accompaniments such as apple sauce are common, while savory versions may be served with sour cream, smoked salmon, or other toppings.

Kartoffelpuffer belong to the wider family of potato pancakes found throughout Central and Eastern Europe. Their German identity comes from the local names, preparation traditions, and regional serving customs. They should not be confused with smooth mashed-potato cakes, which use cooked potatoes and have a different texture.