Are you craving a hearty, comforting side dish that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these delightful Czech bread dumplings! This classic recipe is a staple in Czech cuisine, and for good reason. Fluffy, buttery, and subtly sweet, these dumplings are the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, rich stews, or even a simple bowl of soup. They're a fantastic example of delicious, homemade cooking, and even beginner cooks will find this recipe a breeze. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk, lukewarm
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 6 cups stale bread, cubed (day-old bread works best)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy. This is a crucial step to ensure your dumplings rise properly. If the yeast doesn't foam, it may be old and you'll need a fresh packet.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk in the salt, eggs, and melted butter.
Step 3: Incorporate the Bread
Gently fold in the cubed stale bread. Don't worry about breaking up the bread too much; some larger chunks will add texture.
Step 4: Add Flour Gradually
Gradually add the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; a little stickiness is okay.
Step 5: First Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic happens, creating the light and airy texture.
Step 6: Shaping the Dumplings
Lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the risen dough out onto the floured surface and gently shape it into a large, flat rectangle about 1-inch thick.
Step 7: Cutting and Boiling
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough rectangle into smaller, individual dumplings. The size is up to you, but aim for about 2-3 inches across.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
Step 8: Serving
Remove the dumplings from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and serve immediately. They are delicious on their own, but are even better with a knob of butter melted on top.
Tips for Perfect Czech Bread Dumplings:
- Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the liquid better, resulting in fluffier dumplings.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten, resulting in tough dumplings.
- Adjust flour: Depending on the type of bread and the humidity, you may need slightly more or less flour. Add it gradually to achieve the right consistency.
- Gentle handling: Be gentle when shaping the dumplings to avoid deflating them.
Variations:
- Herby Dumplings: Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to the dough for extra flavor.
- Savory Dumplings: Omit the sugar and add grated cheese, sauteed mushrooms, or other savory ingredients.
- Sweet Dumplings: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a sweet treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Fat: 8-10g
These easy recipes for Czech bread dumplings are a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade cooking! They are perfect for easy meal prep and make wonderful leftovers for lunch the next day. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these dumplings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!