Bryndzová Placka

Introduction

Bryndzová Placka, or Slovak Potato Pancake with Bryndza, is a traditional dish from Slovakia. A savory delight, it combines the rustic flavors of simple Eastern European ingredients with the unique taste of bryndza, a type of sheep cheese. The dish has historical significance in Slovak cuisine, representing the simplicity and resourcefulness of its people.

Historically, Slovak cuisine has developed as a result of the agricultural nature of the region and the influence of neighboring countries. Bryndza cheese has been a staple in Slovakia since the 18th century, brought by the Wallachian shepherds who migrated from Romania. This sheep cheese, noted for its tangy and somewhat spicy flavor, became integral to many Slovak dishes, including Bryndzová Placka. Traditionally, these pancakes were cooked over open fires by shepherds, making a filling meal out of easily available and storable ingredients.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 6 medium-sized
• Bryndza - 200 grams
• All-purpose flour - 3 tablespoons
• Eggs - 2
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Vegetable oil - for frying
• Sour cream - for garnish
• Fresh chopped Parsley - for garnish

Preparation

Preparation of Ingredients

Begin by washing and peeling the potatoes. Once peeled, grate them into a large mixing bowl. Grating the potatoes fine will ensure that your pancakes have a smooth texture.

Next, peel and finely mince the garlic. Add this to the bowl of grated potatoes.

In the same mixing bowl, add the bryndza, flour and eggs. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.

How to Mix the Ingredients

Using your hands or a wooden spoon, fold the ingredients together until a consistent mixture is achieved. Ensure no lumps of bryndza remain and that the texture is uniform.

Cooking Process

Frying the Pancakes

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the surface of the pan, allowing the pancakes to fry evenly.

Once the oil is hot, drop a spoonful of the potato mixture into the pan, spreading it out slightly to form a small, round pancake. Fry the pancakes until they are golden brown on one side. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side, but you can always check with a cooking timer to keep track.

Flip the pancakes carefully and allow them to cook until golden brown on the other side. Make sure both sides are crispy before removing them from the pan.

Draining the Pancakes

As you cook the pancakes, place them on a large plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep the pancakes crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Bryndzová Placka can be enjoyed in different ways. To serve, place a couple of pancakes on a plate. Add a dollop of sour cream on top, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

They can be eaten hot or at room temperature and are often paired as a side dish with goulash or consumed independently as a snack or appetizer. Also, consider serving with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy complement to the savory pancakes.

Conclusion

Now that you have crafted the perfect Bryndzová Placka, you have tapped into a rich cultural heritage of Slovakia, celebrating the unique flavor of bryndza cheese. Enjoy your creation and do not hesitate to experiment with different garnishes or accompaniments to make this traditional dish your own!