This strange German word is pronounced (Kar-toe-full-poofer).  In America, we would call them hash browns.   This amazing treat, cooked to a crispy crunch, was something I anticipated since my last trip to Germany three years ago.

Kartoffelpuffer

My cousin Elizabeth makes them in her kitchen.  A bowl of grated potatoes takes only a few minutes using a grating machine where you turn the handle and a round blade does the work without putting your fingers at risk.  Then she adds potato flour, salt, a little pepper and whatever else she thinks is needed.  She then fries them to a golden crunchy crisp.  And no, you cannot eat just one!

Kartoffelpuffer and Potato Soup are traditional meals from the Rheinland-Pfalz area of Germany where my mother’s family is from.  Here is a mouth-watering bowl of potato soup, also cooked by my cousin Elizabeth.

I like potatoes just about any way you can cook them.  When I am trying to cut out the calories, I find the best way is to eat Sweet Potato Fries baked in the oven.  With a drizzle of olive oil and some parsley sprinkled on top, they satisfy my need for this versatile vegetable.

I can’t wait to return to Germany to experience the amazing Kartoffelpuffer!