Discover the Flavors of Czech Cuisine: 20 Authentic Recipes to Try!
The land of a thousand spires and hearty beer, the Czech Republic has a rich culinary tradition that reflects its history, geography, and culture. From comforting meat stews to decadent pastries, Czech cuisine is all about bold flavors, hearty portions, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavors or simply searching for a taste of nostalgia, these 20 authentic Czech recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Europe, showcasing classic dishes like Goulash with Dumplings, Traditional Czech Svídkovà, and Roasted Duck with Red Cabbage and Dumplings. You’ll also learn how to make beloved treats like Homemade Bramboráky (Potato Pancakes), Czech Fried Cheese, and Trdelník (Czech Chimney Cake). So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm of flavors!
Czech Goulash with Dumplings
This classic Czech dish combines tender beef goulash with soft, fluffy dumplings for a satisfying and warming meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef goulash (ground beef, onions, garlic, paprika, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper)
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 120ml milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large egg
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the dumpling mixture according to package instructions or make from scratch by combining flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add milk, melted butter, and beaten egg; mix until smooth.
3. Bring beef goulash to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Prepare the dumplings as instructed (e.g., shape into small balls or rolls).
5. Simmer dumplings in the goulash for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Traditional Czech Svíčková
Svíčková is a classic Czech dish consisting of marinated beef in cream sauce, served with dumplings and cranberries. This hearty meal is perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 200 ml sour cream
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling mix (available at most supermarkets)
– Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced beef, sour cream, sugar, cinnamon, cherries, and garlic. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Cook dumplings according to package instructions.
3. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Pan-fry until browned, then set aside.
4. In a separate pan, combine remaining marinade with 1 cup heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Serve the beef in cream sauce over dumplings, garnished with fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Bramboráky (Potato Pancakes)
Bramboráky are a classic Czech dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful potato pancakes that pair perfectly with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes and onion.
2. In a bowl, mix together grated potato mixture, egg, flour, and salt.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape small portions of the potato mixture into patties.
5. Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Czech Garlic Soup (Česnečka)
This hearty soup is a staple of Czech cuisine, perfect for warming up on a cold winter’s day. With its rich garlic flavor and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kulajda (Creamy Mushroom Soup)
A classic Polish soup that warms the heart and soul with its rich, creamy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Duck with Red Cabbage and Dumplings
Roasted Duck with Red Cabbage and Dumplings: A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red cabbage, shredded
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
– Water, for cooking dumplings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the duck, making sure it’s evenly coated.
3. Place the duck in a roasting pan and roast for 45 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, toss the shredded cabbage with carrots and cook in a separate pan with a little water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Cook dumplings according to package instructions or recipe. Set aside.
6. After the duck has roasted for 45 minutes, increase oven temperature to broil (500°F/260°C). Broil for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve the roasted duck with red cabbage mixture and dumplings on the side.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Czech Fried Cheese (Smažený Sýr)
A classic Czech dish that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, smažený sýr is a simple yet delicious recipe perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cheese slices (Edam or Gouda work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each cheese slice into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip the floured cheese slice into the milk, then coat with the beaten egg.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the coated cheese slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (including preparation)
Vepřo Knedlo Zelo (Pork with Dumplings and Sauerkraut)
Vepřo Knedlo Zelo is a traditional Czech recipe that combines the flavors of slow-cooked pork, tender dumplings, and tangy sauerkraut. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 200g dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Season the pork pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork, then set aside.
4. Add garlic and sauerkraut to the pot; cook until the sauerkraut is slightly caramelized.
5. Add the dumpling mix and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Return the pork to the pot and add caraway seeds (if using). Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for an additional 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Czech Kolaches (Sweet Fruit Pastries)
A traditional Czech pastry filled with sweet fruit and spices, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Filling of your choice (e.g., apricot jam, apple filling, or raisins and currants)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each disk.
8. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square, and press edges to seal.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Trdelník (Czech Chimney Cake)
Trdelník, also known as Czech Chimney Cake, is a classic pastry that originated in Prague. This sweet treat is made by wrapping dough around a stick and grilling it to perfection, then topping it with sugar and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sugar and chopped walnuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
5. Place each ball on a stick or wooden skewer, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
6. Heat a grill or griddle to medium-high heat. Grill the Trdelník for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sugar and chopped walnuts.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Palačinky (Czech-Style Crepes)
Experience the classic Czech delight with this simple recipe for Palačinky, also known as Czech-style crepes. These thin, delicate pancakes are perfect for sweet or savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
– Filling of your choice (e.g., fruit, whipped cream, cheese, or meat)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs until smooth.
2. Gradually add milk and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Add salt and whisk to combine.
4. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Grease with melted butter.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
7. Loosen the crepe with a spatula and flip. Cook for another minute.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
9. Fill with your chosen filling and serve.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes (depending on number of crepes)
Czech Potato Salad (Bramborový Salát)
Czech Potato Salad, or Bramborový Salát, is a classic Czech dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty salad combines boiled potatoes with a tangy dressing and adds some crunch from the onions and pickles.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of chopped pickles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until they’re tender, then drain and let them cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, sliced onion, and chopped pickles.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
7. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lívance (Czech Buttermilk Pancakes)
Lívance: Czech Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe
These light and fluffy Lívance pancakes are a staple of Czech cuisine, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Made with buttermilk, eggs, and flour, they’re a delightful treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 250 ml buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 200 g all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Vegetable oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the flour and salt to the mixture; whisk until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with a small amount of vegetable oil or butter.
4. Using a ladle, pour in a small amount of batter and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Ovocné Knedlíky (Fruit-Filled Dumplings)
A classic Czech dessert, Ovocné Knedlíky are sweet dumplings filled with a mixture of fruits and sweetened with sugar. This recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this traditional treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Filling:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup chopped apples
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm milk, salt, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add melted butter and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly and place 1-2 tablespoons of fruit filling in the center.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a dumpling shape.
6. Cook the dumplings in boiling water for 10-15 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Czech Honey Cake (Medovník)
This traditional Czech cake is a sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions. Made with honey, spices, and dark chocolate, it’s a rich and decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and honey until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips and fold into the batter.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Šopský Salát (Czech-Style Shopska Salad)
A refreshing twist on the classic Russian salad, Šopský Salát is a Czech-inspired delight that combines tangy pickles, creamy yogurt, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup pickled cucumbers (Šopsky), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, chopped pickled cucumbers, salt, and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumber mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is a quick and easy assemble.
Czech Beef in Cream Sauce (Hovězí na Smetaně)
This classic Czech dish is a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Tender beef strips are cooked to perfection in a rich cream sauce, served with boiled potatoes and steamed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to desired tenderness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moravian Spice Cookies (Perníčky)
These traditional Czech cookies are a staple of Moravian culture, with their unique blend of spices and sweet flavors. Perfect for snacking or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and honey.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Czech Pickled Sausages (Nakládaný Hermelín)
A classic Czech dish, Nakládaný Hermelín is a flavorful and tangy take on traditional sausages. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Czech-style sausages (such as Krakowska or Bratwurst)
– 1 cup vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp caraway seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and caraway seeds.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the sausages from their casings and add them to the pot.
4. Simmer the sausages in the pickling liquid for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove the sausages from the pot and let them cool to room temperature.
6. Store the Nakládaný Hermelín in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buchtičky se Šodó (Vanilla Dumplings with Custard)
These sweet treats are a classic Czech dessert, perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat any time of the year. Soft and fluffy vanilla dumplings filled with a rich custard filling will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 large egg
– Filling ingredients (below)
Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm milk, salt, sugar, and yeast. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dumpling. Fold the dough over to form a triangle or shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve warm with additional custard on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including cooking time)
Summary
Discover the rich culinary heritage of the Czech Republic with these 20 authentic recipes. From hearty dishes like Czech Goulash with Dumplings and Roasted Duck with Red Cabbage and Dumplings, to sweet treats like Czech Kolaches and Moravian Spice Cookies, there’s something for every taste. Try making traditional favorites like Kulajda (Creamy Mushroom Soup) and Vepro Knedlo Zelo (Pork with Dumplings and Sauerkraut), or indulge in modern twists on classic dishes. With these recipes, you can bring a little bit of Czech culture to your table.
