Traditional Czech Bramborové Knedlíky Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 large potatoes
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Extra flour for rolling

Steps and instructions

  1. Peel the potatoes and boil them until they’re soft. Drain and let them cool.
  2. Once the potatoes are cooled, grate them into a bowl. Add the egg, salt, and milk to the grated potatoes and mix well.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the potato mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be sticky but firm enough to handle. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour.
  4. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each part into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully place the dough logs into the boiling water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the dumplings for 15-20 minutes or until they rise to the surface.
  6. Using a slotted spoon, remove the dumplings from the water. Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them into slices. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
  • Vegetarian option: Omit the egg and use a plant-based milk substitute, such as almond milk or soy milk.
  • Sweet variation: Add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough mixture for a slightly sweet taste.
  • Herb-infused dumplings: Mix chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill into the dough before shaping.
  • Cheese-filled dumplings: Cut the cooked dumplings in half and stuff them with a small slice of cheese before serving.
  • Butter and breadcrumb coating: After slicing the dumplings, sauté them in a pan with melted butter and breadcrumbs until golden brown.

Recipe overview

"Bramborové knedlíky, or Czech potato dumplings, are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. These dumplings have a unique, soft texture that sets them apart from other types of dumplings. They're made with a simple dough of potatoes, flour, egg, and milk, then boiled until they rise to the surface. Once cooled, they're cut into slices and served. Traditionally, they're a perfect accompaniment to hearty stews or roasts, but they can also be enjoyed on their own with a dab of butter or gravy. This recipe is quite straightforward, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners in the kitchen. Let's get started on this delightful dish!"

Common questions

  1. Can I use instant potatoes instead of fresh potatoes? No, it is recommended to use fresh potatoes for the best texture and flavor of the dumplings.
  2. Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other flours like potato flour or semolina flour if desired.
  3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
  4. How do I know when the dumplings are cooked? The dumplings will rise to the surface when they are fully cooked. Cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes after they have risen to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
  5. Can I freeze the cooked dumplings? Yes, you can freeze the cooked dumplings. After slicing them, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, steam or microwave them until heated through.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Potato peeler - Used to peel the potatoes.
  • Grater - Used to grate the boiled potatoes.
  • Large pot - Used to boil the dumplings.
  • Slotted spoon - Used to remove the dumplings from the boiling water.
  • Knife - Used to slice the cooked dumplings.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface for slicing the dumplings.

Origin stories

Bramborové knedlíky, or potato dumplings, are a staple in Czech cuisine, often served alongside hearty meat dishes and stews. This humble dish is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Czech cooks who had to make do with the ingredients they had on hand, particularly during the harsh winters. The tradition of dumpling-making is often passed down through generations, and you'll find that each family has their own unique recipe and method for making the perfect knedlíky. For many Czechs, the smell of dumplings cooking brings back fond memories of home and family gatherings.

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.