What Traditional Czech Christmas Dish Is Served at Prague Market?

By Alice Nichols

What Traditional Czech Christmas Dish Is Served at Prague Market?

When it comes to experiencing the festive spirit of Christmas in Prague, visiting the local markets is an absolute must. These markets are filled with holiday cheer, traditional crafts, and most importantly, delicious food.

One dish that stands out among all the culinary delights is the mouthwatering Czech Trdelník.

The Czech Trdelník: A Delightful Christmas Treat

The Czech Trdelník is a sweet pastry that has become synonymous with Christmas in Prague. This traditional delicacy can be found in almost every market stall during the holiday season.

Its unique cylindrical shape and enticing aroma make it hard to resist.

Ingredients:
To make this delectable dessert, you will need:

  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 250ml warm milk
  • 50g melted butter
  • 50g granulated sugar
  • 10g active dry yeast
  • A pinch of salt
  • Cinnamon and sugar mixture for dusting

The Preparation Process:

1. Dissolve the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, and the frothy yeast mixture.
3. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.
4.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking sheet.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each piece into a long rope-like shape.
6. Wrap the dough around a wooden cylinder or stainless steel tube, slightly pressing it to create the signature cylindrical shape of the Trdelník.
7. Place the wrapped dough on the greased baking sheet and bake for approximately 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Once baked, remove the Trdelník from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before carefully sliding it off the tube.
9. Generously sprinkle the Trdelník with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while it’s still warm.

The Joy of Eating Trdelník

The joy of eating Trdelník lies in its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy outer layer, coated with cinnamon sugar, gives way to a soft, pillowy interior that melts in your mouth.

This heavenly treat is best enjoyed warm, especially on chilly winter days.

Where to Find Trdelník:
During Christmas time, you can find Trdelník not only at Prague’s markets but also in many bakeries and pastry shops throughout the city. The enticing aroma of freshly baked Trdelníks wafts through the air, luring visitors from near and far.

A Perfect Christmas Souvenir

If you want to take home a piece of Czech Christmas tradition, consider buying a Trdelník as a souvenir. Packed beautifully in decorative boxes or paper bags, it makes for an ideal gift for loved ones or even as a treat for yourself.

In conclusion, if you’re planning a visit to Prague during the Christmas season, make sure to try the traditional Czech Trdelník. With its irresistible taste and festive charm, it is a dish that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas in the heart of Prague.