As a result of the global pandemic traveling outside of the country is not much of an option. Most summer plans, trips, and events have been canceled, but it is not the world's end. We can still travel and indulge ourselves in different cultures from our homes' safety, by trying new foods and learning about places we would have gone to this summer.
For instance, The Czech Republic, known for its beer, kings, and castles, is a great way to start emerging oneself into another country's culture. Chances are you didn't realize popular breakfast classics such as Kolaches and Hash Browns originated from The Czech Republic. Most likely if you were there now you would have eaten tons tasty of food there, why not do it while at home. Many of us have found ourselves in the kitchen more than usual because of quarantine. Now let us have fun with all this stuck at home time.
Cooking Czech style dishes can be a great way to do all of these things. Czech cuisine consists of thick soups and many kinds of sauces, both based on stewed or cooked vegetables and meats, often with cream and baked meats with natural gravies, are popular dishes usually accompanied with beer, especially Pilsner. Czechia natives consume the most in the world. These dishes include ingredients that you already have in your home or readily available in most grocery stores.
Food bonds people. For instance, having taco Tuesday and eating Mexican food that night is a great way to connect families, make memories, and start new traditions. Imagine picking one night a week to indulge in another country's customs and making it your very own international night. Dedicating the night to a country’s culture, food, or music. Exposing yourself and your families to something worldly in the comfort of their kitchens will make quarantine less of a burden and more fun for everyone.So put on your chef hat and get to cooking!
Czech cuisine is historically influenced by the surrounding regions that dominated the country. In 1273, Count Rudolph, King of Germany, founded the Hapsburg dynasty. The Germans brought with them roast goose, sauerkraut, and dumplings, which have since become Czech staple dishes.
My first suggestion is Bohemian Beef Dinner (Večeře z českého Hovězího Masa), a savory meal with beef and sauerkraut covered in a creamy sauce.
Czech cuisine is considered heavy and very filling, with meals centered on meats and starches. This is because Czech winters are long and cold, which does not allow for a variety of fresh vegetables. In fact, if salads are available, they typically are limited to two vegetables, such as tomato and cucumber. Mushrooms being an exception, which flourishes in local forests and is popular in soups.
Secondly, try making Czechs famous Potato Soup with mushrooms (Bramborová a Houbová Polévka)
Lastly, if you're feeling for something sweet try making Czech’s notorious Poppy Seed Roll (Makový Závin).Known for its unique appearance when cut, with the dough and the poppy seed filling winding around each other in a spiral. The roll is often consumed alongside tea or coffee, and it is typically prepared for festivities such as Christmas or other winter holidays. Although it can be found in stores throughout the year, making Makowiec is a holiday family tradition.
Suppose you are interested in expanding your taste palette and immersing yourself in more Czech culture. You can support the Czech Center Museum Houston with a donation of $20 or more today to receive your very own Czech cookbook filled with plenty of Czech style recipes.
Written By: J’on-Maree Greenidge