Authentic Czech Španělský Ptáček Recipe

Ingredients

  • 8 beef slices (thinly cut)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 8 slices of bacon
  • 8 sausages (preferably Wiener)
  • 8 pickles
  • 8 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon of flour
  • 1 tablespoon of butter
  • 1 cup of sour cream

Steps and instructions

  1. Season the beef slices on both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Place a slice of bacon, a sausage, a pickle, and a hard-boiled egg on each beef slice.
  3. Roll up the beef slices and secure them with cooking string or toothpicks.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan and brown the rolled beef slices on all sides.
  5. Remove the beef rolls from the pan and set them aside.
  6. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
  7. Add flour to the pan, stir well, and cook for a couple of minutes until it turns golden.
  8. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
  9. Return the beef rolls to the pan and simmer for about 1.5 hours, until the beef is tender.
  10. Remove the beef rolls from the pan and discard the cooking string or toothpicks.
  11. Stir in the sour cream and butter to the sauce left in the pan, and cook until the sauce is thick and creamy.
  12. Return the beef rolls to the pan and simmer for a few more minutes until they are heated through.
  13. Serve the Španělský ptáček hot, with the creamy sauce poured over the top.

Tools for making

  • Pan - A large pan for browning the beef rolls and making the sauce.
  • Cooking string or toothpicks - To secure the beef rolls and prevent them from unwrapping while cooking.
  • Whisk - To mix the flour and beef broth together without forming lumps.
  • Spatula or tongs - To flip and handle the beef rolls while browning them.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the pickles.
  • Cutting board - To safely chop and prepare the ingredients.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - To accurately measure the vegetable oil, flour, butter, and sour cream.
  • Stove or cooktop - To heat the pan and simmer the beef rolls.
  • Serving platter - To present the Španělský ptáček when serving.

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or pork slices instead of beef
  • Wrap the rolls in prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon
  • Replace the sausages with cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian option
  • Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the filling
  • Include sliced bell peppers or jalapenos for added flavor and spice
  • Experiment with different seasonings, such as paprika, herbs, or chili powder
  • Try using turkey bacon or turkey sausages for a lighter version
  • Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist
  • Add diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to the sauce for a tomato-based variation
  • Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs

Recipe overview

This recipe page will guide you through the process of making Španělský ptáček, a traditional Czech dish. Despite its name, which translates to 'Spanish bird', it doesn't contain any poultry. Instead, Španělský ptáček is a hearty and flavorful beef roll, filled with a savory combination of bacon, sausage, pickles, and hard-boiled egg. Once browned, these rolls are simmered in a rich sauce until tender, resulting in a dish that's packed with flavors and textures. The recipe involves several steps and ingredients, but the process is straightforward and well worth the effort. This beloved Czech delicacy is a surefire hit at any dining table and will surely impress your guests with its unique presentation and delicious taste.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef? Yes, you can use pork or chicken slices instead of beef if you prefer.
  2. Can I use different types of sausages? Certainly! While Wiener sausages are traditional, you can use any type of sausage you like.
  3. Can I omit the pickles? If you're not a fan of pickles, you can leave them out or substitute them with other pickled vegetables of your choice.
  4. Can I use pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs? Yes, you can use pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs for convenience.
  5. What can I serve with Španělský ptáček? It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread dumplings.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Španělský ptáček in advance and reheat it before serving. The flavors often develop further when reheated.
  7. How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for slicing and preparing the ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the beef slices, chopping onions, and mincing garlic.
  • Cooking string or toothpicks - Used to secure the beef rolls before cooking.
  • Pan - A large, deep pan to brown the beef rolls and simmer them in the sauce.
  • Whisk - To stir and incorporate the flour into the sauce without lumps.
  • Serving platter - A large dish or platter to present the Španělský ptáček for serving.

Origin stories

Španělský ptáček, contrary to what its name suggests, has nothing to do with Spain or birds. This delightful dish hails from the heart of Europe, specifically the Czech Republic, and its rich and hearty character mirrors the warm and inviting spirit of the Czech people. Its curious name, which translates to 'Spanish bird', is a bit of an enigma, a gastronomical mystery that adds to the charm of this traditional meal. Some speculate that the role of the egg inside the roll might resemble a bird in a nest, hence the name. Others say it could be due to the colorful appearance of the dish that is reminiscent of the beautiful birds found in Spain. Despite these theories, the origin of the name remains a mystery. But one thing is certain: Španělský ptáček is a beloved culinary treasure in Czech cuisine, savored in homes and restaurants alike, and its unique name only adds to its intriguing allure.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.