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Authentic & Easy German Potato Dumplings (Kartoffelklöße)

A pile of golden brown, crispy pan-fried potato dumplings served on a white plate.
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Make traditional German Potato Dumplings, Kartoffelklöße, at home. This simple recipe guides you to fluffy potato dumplings with a slightly chewy exterior, perfect for serving with gravy or roast meat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs starchy potatoes (like Russet), peeled
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for browning breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until they are very tender. Drain them completely and let them cool slightly.
  2. While the potatoes cool, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring constantly, until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Pass the warm, cooked potatoes through a potato ricer or mash them thoroughly until completely smooth. You must avoid any lumps.
  4. On a clean surface or in a large bowl, combine the riced potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Mix gently with your hands until a soft, uniform dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Lightly flour your hands. Divide the dough into portions and roll them into smooth balls, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. These are your Kartoffelklöße.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer (do not boil rapidly). Carefully drop the dumplings into the simmering water.
  7. Cook the dumplings for about 15 to 20 minutes. They are done when they float to the surface and remain floating for a few minutes.
  8. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked dumplings. Gently roll the warm dumplings in the reserved toasted breadcrumbs before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use starchy potatoes and ensure they are fully drained and riced while still warm.
  • If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you can use them, but reduce the amount of flour slightly to account for any added liquid.
  • Serve these potato dumplings as a hearty side dish with beef roast, gravy, or sautéed onions.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/potato-dumplings-easy-german-kartoffelkl/