Klobásový Králík

Introduction to Klobásový Králík

Klobásový Králík, or Sausage Rabbit, is a beloved dish with roots planted deeply in Czech culinary traditions. This dish brings together the savory elements of rabbit meat and the rich, spiced flavors of sausage. Over the centuries, it has been a staple at Czech family gatherings, ranging from countryside kitchens to urban celebrations.

This dish epitomizes rustic simplicity, harking back to simple times when meals were cooked slowly over open fires. Czech cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting meals, and Klobásový Králík stands out as a testament to this tradition, uniting the country's love for quality meats with its fondness for aromatic spices. The additional layers of flavor from onions, garlic, and a medley of herbs make this meal an extraordinary culinary experience.

Ingredients

• Rabbit - 1 whole, cleaned and jointed
• Sausage - 300g, sliced
• Onion - 2 large, sliced
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 3 medium, sliced
• Celery - 2 stalks, chopped
• Thyme - 3 sprigs, fresh
• Rosemary - 2 sprigs, fresh
• Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
• Beef Broth - 2 cups
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Flour - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Preparing the Rabbit and Sausage

Begin by preparing your rabbit. Ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and jointed into manageable pieces. If you are unfamiliar with jointing, consider consulting a detailed guide or a professional butcher to assist. Set the rabbit pieces aside.

Next, slice your sausage into bite-sized pieces. The type of sausage can vary from spicy varieties like chorizo to mild ones such as kielbasa, depending on your spice preference.

Preparing the Vegetables and Herbs

Clean and slice the onions, chop the celery, and cut the carrots into rounds. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Have your thyme and rosemary sprigs ready to be added to the dish later.

Cooking Instructions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the rabbit pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the rabbit from the pot and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the sausage slices and cook until they release their oils and start to brown. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the rabbit.

Lower the heat and add the onions and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Stir in the carrots and celery and cook for an additional five minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Sprinkle in the flour and paprika and stir to coat the vegetables evenly, cooking for a couple of minutes. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring to prevent lumps from forming.

Return the rabbit and sausage to the pot. Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about an hour or until the rabbit is tender.

Remember to check the pot occasionally, ensuring that the stew is not sticking to the bottom. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more of beef broth.

Enjoying Klobásový Králík

Once your Klobásový Králík is ready, serve it hot, accompanied by traditional Czech dumplings, a side of crusty bread or freshly cooked pasta to soak up the flavorful broth.

This dish pairs well with a glass of robust red wine or a chilled pilsner, enhancing the myriad flavors from the savory rabbit and spiced sausage. Whether shared among friends or family, this meal is sure to warm hearts and bring a slice of Czech tradition to your dining table.