Czech Classic: Svíčková na Smetaně (Beef Sirloin in Cream Sauce)

Svíčková na Smetaně is a traditional Czech dish featuring tender beef sirloin cooked in a rich, creamy vegetable sauce, often served with bread dumplings. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal. Follow this recipe to create authentic Svíčková na Smetaně at home.

Ingredients:

For the Beef:

• 2 lbs (900g) beef sirloin or rump roast
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 1 parsnip, chopped
• 1 small celery root, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 5-6 whole black peppercorns
• 5-6 whole allspice berries
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Bread dumplings or boiled potatoes
• Cranberry sauce (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Beef:

1. Sear the Beef:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, parsnip, and celery root. Cook until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Broth and Spices:
   • Return the beef to the pot. Add the bay leaves, black peppercorns, allspice berries, beef broth, and water. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. Strain the Vegetables:
   • Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Strain the cooking liquid, reserving the vegetables and discarding the bay leaves and whole spices.
2. Blend the Vegetables:
   • Using a blender or food processor, blend the reserved vegetables until smooth. Return the vegetable puree to the pot.
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Add the cream mixture to the pot with the vegetable puree.
4. Season the Sauce:
   • Add the sugar, vinegar, and lemon juice to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes until thickened and well combined.

Serving:

1. Slice the Beef:
   • Slice the beef into thin pieces.
2. Assemble the Dish:
   • Place the sliced beef on a plate and generously pour the cream sauce over the top.
3. Serve:
   • Serve with bread dumplings or boiled potatoes, and optionally, a dollop of cranberry sauce.

Svíčková na Smetaně is a rich and flavorful Czech dish that combines tender beef with a creamy vegetable sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal, this dish brings the authentic taste of Czech cuisine to your table. Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe. Dobrou chuť (Enjoy your meal)!