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Vepřo-knedlo-zelo is one of the most iconic dishes in Czech cuisine. This mouthwatering meal combines succulent roast pork (Vepřo), fluffy bread dumplings (Knedlo), and tangy sauerkraut (Zelo). It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that represents the essence of Czech comfort food. Whether for a special occasion or a Sunday family meal, this recipe will guide you through creating this traditional Czech favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pork:

2 lb (0.9 kg) pork shoulder 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp (5 g) caraway seeds 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil Salt and black pepper to taste 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth For the Dumplings:

3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk 1 large egg 1 tsp (5 g) salt 2 rolls or bread slices (day-old), cubed For the Sauerkraut:

1 lb (0.45 kg) sauerkraut, drained 1 onion, finely chopped 2 tbsp (30 g) sugar 2 tbsp (30 g) butter 1 tsp (5 g) caraway seeds 1/2 cup (120 ml) water Instructions

Roast the Pork: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rub the pork shoulder with garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Heat the oil in a skillet and sear the pork until browned on all sides. Transfer the pork to a roasting pan, pour the chicken broth over it, cover, and roast for 2 to 2.5 hours until tender, basting occasionally.

Prepare the Dumplings: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk and beaten egg, mixing until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, then cover and let it rise for 1 hour. Once risen, knead in the bread cubes. Shape the dough into 2 logs, and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Boil water in a large pot, place the dumplings into the water, and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Remove and slice.

Cook the Sauerkraut: In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion until golden. Add the sauerkraut, sugar, caraway seeds, and water. Cook for about 20 minutes until the sauerkraut is soft and the flavors meld together.

Serve: Slice the roasted pork and serve alongside the dumplings and sauerkraut. Drizzle with the pork’s juices for extra flavor.

Serving Vepřo-knedlo-zelo is best enjoyed fresh and warm. The savory roast pork, tender dumplings, and tangy sauerkraut combine to create a symphony of flavors. Serve with a cold Czech beer or a glass of crisp white wine to complement the richness of the dish.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo is a beloved classic in Czech homes, known for its comforting and filling qualities. This traditional meal showcases the heart of Czech cooking with its robust flavors and simple ingredients. Follow this recipe for an authentic taste of the Czech Republic, perfect for a family dinner or gathering.