Bryndzové Halušky Recipe

This traditional Slovak dish is a celebration of robust flavors, where soft potato dumplings meet a rich and creamy sheep cheese sauce, topped with crispy bacon bits. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Slovakia, Bryndzové Halušky encapsulates the essence of Slovakian culinary tradition and the use of locally sourced ingredients. Join us as we guide you through crafting this flavorful masterpiece, inviting you to savor the authentic taste of Slovakia’s cherished culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

For the Potato Dumplings (Halušky):

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and grated
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• Salt, to taste

For the Bryndza Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup bryndza cheese (can substitute with feta cheese)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Topping:

• 4-6 slices of bacon, chopped into bits
• Chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Grate the peeled potatoes into a large bowl.
2. Squeeze out excess liquid from the grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel.
3. Add flour, egg, and salt to the grated potatoes. Mix to form a sticky dough.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato dough into the boiling water. These will form the potato dumplings (halušky).
6. Cook the dumplings for about 3-4 minutes, or until they rise to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
7. In a separate pot, melt the butter over low heat.
8. Add the bryndza cheese (or feta cheese) and sour cream to the melted butter. Stir until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. In a skillet, fry the chopped bacon bits until they are crispy. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels.
10. Place the cooked halušky on a serving plate.
11. Pour the warm bryndza cheese sauce over the halušky.
12. Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the top.
13. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions if desired.
14. Serve the Bryndzové Halušky hot and enjoy the authentic flavors of Slovakia.