Czech cuisine is known for its richness and diversity, with an emphasis on hearty and flavorful dishes. It is dominated by meat dishes, potatoes, cabbage, and various types of dumplings. Here are some of the most popular dishes that are typical of Czech cuisine:
Svíčková na smetaně
This is one of the most important dishes in Czech cuisine, consisting of beef braised in a thick, creamy sauce with vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions. This dish is usually served with dumplings and cranberries.
Vepřo knedlo zelo
This traditional dish consists of roast pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut. It is one of the most characteristic dishes of Czech cuisine and a favorite among many Czechs.
Knedlíky
Dumplings are ubiquitous in Czech cuisine and can be served as a side dish to various meat dishes or in a sweet version with fruit and sugar. There are different types of dumplings, including potato, yeast, and bread dumplings.
Guláš
Czech goulash is somewhat similar to the Hungarian version but is often less spicy. It consists of stewed meat (usually beef) in a thick sauce with onions, paprika, and spices. It is served with bread or dumplings.
Bramboráky
These are fried potato pancakes, often seasoned with garlic and marjoram. They can be served on their own or as a side dish to other meals.
Řízek
This is a breaded and fried pork or chicken cutlet, similar to the German schnitzel. It is often served with potatoes or potato salad.
Palačinky
Thin pancakes that can be served with various fillings, both sweet (such as jam, chocolate, whipped cream) and savory (such as spinach, cheese, meat).
Koláče
Sweet pastries made from yeast dough, filled with various fillings such as cottage cheese, poppy seeds, fruit, or marmalade. They are popular as both a dessert and a snack.
Tatarák
The Czech version of steak tartare, raw minced or finely chopped beef seasoned with garlic, onions, mustard, egg yolk, and other spices. It is served with toast.
What Czechs Enjoy Most:
Pivo (Beer):
The Czech Republic is famous for its beer, and Czech beers such as Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar are known worldwide. Beer is an integral part of Czech culture and cuisine.
Polévky (Soups):
Czechs love soups, which are often served as the first course. Popular soups include garlic soup (česnečka), goulash soup (gulášová), and mushroom soup (houbová polévka).
Smažený sýr (Fried Cheese):
This is breaded and fried cheese, often served with fries and tartar sauce. It is a popular snack in both restaurants and street food stalls.
Czechs have a deep connection with traditional cuisine, taking joy in its rich flavors and hearty dishes. This makes Czech cuisine so unique and popular both domestically and internationally.
