What Are Prague Dumplings?
If you are visiting Prague, one culinary delight that you must try is the famous Prague dumplings. These soft and fluffy bread-based dumplings are a staple in Czech cuisine and are often served alongside hearty dishes like goulash or roasted meats. In this article, we will explore what Prague dumplings are, how they are made, and some popular variations.
The Basics of Prague Dumplings
Prague dumplings, also known as knedlíky in Czech, have a long history and are considered a traditional Czech dish. They are made by mixing flour, yeast, milk, eggs, and sometimes breadcrumbs together to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into large cylindrical rolls and boiled until cooked through.
Once cooked, the dumplings are sliced into thick slices and served as a side dish or as part of the main course. Their soft texture and mild flavor make them an excellent accompaniment to rich and savory dishes.
Types of Prague Dumplings
While the basic recipe for Prague dumplings remains the same across different variations, there are a few types that have their unique characteristics:
- Houskové knedlíky: These are the most common type of Prague dumplings. They are made with white bread rolls that have been left to stale for a day or two.
The stale bread is then mixed with other ingredients to form the dough.
- Bramborové knedlíky: This variation of Prague dumplings is made with potatoes instead of bread rolls. Grated potatoes are mixed with flour and other ingredients to create a dough that is boiled until cooked.
- Uzené knedlíky: Uzené knedlíky, also known as smoked dumplings, are made by adding smoked meat or bacon to the dough. This gives the dumplings a smoky flavor that pairs well with dishes like roasted pork.
Serving Prague Dumplings
Prague dumplings are often served with a generous helping of gravy or sauce. The dumplings soak up the flavors of the sauce and become even more delicious. They can also be enjoyed on their own or used as a base for other dishes.
To serve Prague dumplings, simply slice them into thick pieces and arrange them on a plate. You can drizzle them with melted butter for extra richness or sprinkle them with chopped parsley for added freshness.
Tips for Making Perfect Prague Dumplings
Making Prague dumplings requires some practice, but with a few tips, you can achieve great results:
- Use stale bread: For houskové knedlíky, it’s crucial to use stale bread rolls as fresh ones will not yield the desired texture.
- Don’t overcook: Be careful not to overcook the dumplings as they may become dense and heavy. Boil them until they are cooked through but still light and fluffy.
- Slice just before serving: To maintain their softness, it’s best to slice the dumplings just before serving rather than in advance.
In conclusion, Prague dumplings are a delightful Czech specialty that should not be missed. Whether you try the classic houskové knedlíky or experiment with other variations, these soft and fluffy dumplings are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, next time you visit Prague, make sure to savor this traditional dish and experience the rich flavors of Czech cuisine.