Czech Classic: Vepřo Knedlo Zelo (Roast Pork with Dumplings and Sauerkraut)

Vepřo Knedlo Zelo is a traditional Czech dish that features roasted pork served with bread dumplings and sauerkraut. This hearty and flavorful meal is a staple in Czech cuisine and perfect for a satisfying dinner. Follow this recipe to create authentic Vepřo Knedlo Zelo at home.

Ingredients:

For the Roast Pork:

• 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder or pork loin
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup water or chicken broth

For the Sauerkraut:

• 1 lb (450g) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bread Dumplings:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 4-5 slices of day-old bread, cut into small cubes

Instructions:

Preparing the Roast Pork:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the Pork:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork.
3. Sear the Pork:
   • In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned.
4. Roast the Pork:
   • Add the water or chicken broth to the pan and cover. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through. Baste occasionally with the pan juices.

Preparing the Sauerkraut:

1. Cook the Onion:
   • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent.
2. Add the Sauerkraut:
   • Add the sauerkraut, sugar, water or chicken broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Bread Dumplings:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and eggs, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Add the Bread Cubes:
   • Once risen, gently knead the bread cubes into the dough.
5. Shape and Cook the Dumplings:
   • Divide the dough into 2-3 portions and shape each into a log. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove and let cool slightly before slicing.

Serving:

1. Slice the Pork:
   • Slice the roasted pork.
2. Serve the Dish:
   • Serve the sliced pork with the bread dumplings and sauerkraut on the side. Drizzle some of the pan juices over the pork.

Vepřo Knedlo Zelo is a delicious and hearty Czech dish that combines tender roasted pork with flavorful sauerkraut and soft bread dumplings. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this dish brings the authentic taste of Czech cuisine to your table. Enjoy this easy and delightful recipe. Dobrou chuť (Enjoy your meal)!