Authentic Slovak Strapáčky: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

500g of potatoes
200g of smoked bacon
1 large onion
2 cloves of garlic
250g of Sauerkraut (fermented cabbage)
1 teaspoon of marjoram
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
100g of flour

Steps and instructions

Peel and grate the potatoes into a large bowl.
Add the flour to the potatoes and mix until a dough forms.
Chop the onion and garlic finely, and cut the bacon into small pieces.
In a large pan, cook the bacon until it's crispy.
Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until they become translucent.
Add the sauerkraut to the pan and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes.
Form small dumplings from the potato dough and add them to the pan. Cover and let them cook for about 10 minutes.
Uncover the pan and add the crispy bacon and marjoram. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Strapáčky hot, garnished with some extra crispy bacon if desired.

Tools for making

Grater - For grating the potatoes.
Large bowl - To mix the grated potatoes and flour.
Knife - For chopping the onion and garlic.
Large pan - To cook the bacon, onion, garlic, sauerkraut, and Strapáčky.
Spatula - For stirring and flipping the Strapáčky.
Lid - To cover the pan while cooking the Strapáčky.

Recipe variations

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.
Replace the smoked bacon with cooked ham or smoked sausage.
Add grated cheese to the potato dough for a cheesy twist.
Try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of the bacon fat.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme or paprika.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top.
Add cooked diced chicken or turkey for a meatier version.
Create a vegan version by using plant-based bacon substitutes and vegetable oil instead of bacon fat.

Recipe overview

Strapáčky is a traditional Slovak dish that is both comforting and delicious. This hearty meal is made with grated potato dumplings, crispy smoked bacon, and tangy sauerkraut. The ingredients are sautéed together to create a dish that is savory, slightly smoky, and packed full of flavor. This recipe is straightforward to make and doesn't require any specialized cooking skills, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. Expect a meal that is full-bodied, filling, and sure to satisfy your palate. Enjoy Strapáčky as a satisfying lunch or dinner, especially during colder months when you crave something warm and filling.

Common questions

Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and consistency of the Strapáčky may vary depending on the potato variety you choose.
Can I use regular cabbage instead of sauerkraut? Traditionally, Strapáčky are made with sauerkraut, which adds a distinctive tangy flavor. However, if you don't have sauerkraut on hand, you can use regular cabbage as a substitute. Just sauté the cabbage with some vinegar to mimic the sourness of sauerkraut.
Is there a vegetarian version of Strapáčky? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Strapáčky by omitting the bacon. Instead, you can add some mushrooms or tofu for extra flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Strapáčky? While it is possible to freeze Strapáčky, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. It is best to enjoy Strapáčky fresh for the best taste and texture.
Can I adjust the seasonings to my taste? Absolutely! The amounts of salt, pepper, and marjoram mentioned in the recipe are just guidelines. Feel free to adjust them according to your personal preference.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large bowl - Used for grating and mixing the potatoes.
Grater - To grate the potatoes.
Pan - A large pan is needed to cook the bacon, onion, garlic, sauerkraut, and dumplings.
Spatula - Used for stirring and flipping the ingredients in the pan.
Cover - To cover the pan while the dumplings are cooking.

Origin stories

Strapáčky is a hearty dish that hails from Slovakia. Its origins are deeply rooted in the countryside where farmers needed nourishing meals to sustain them through long hours of physical labor. The dish is a testament to the humble potato that grows abundantly in the region and the sauerkraut, a winter staple in many Slovak households. The addition of smoked bacon adds a layer of complexity and richness to the dish. This delicious combination of simple, locally sourced ingredients speak to the resourcefulness and creativity of the Slovak people in crafting meals that are not only nourishing but also deeply satisfying. Strapáčky is more than just a dish; it is a culinary symbol of the Slovak rural lifestyle that has stood the test of time.

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.