Knedliky - Czech Dumpling with Sauerkraut (Zeli)

This Czech dumpling recipe was my grandmother's and has remained a family favorite. It should be served with roast pork, sauerkraut, and a nice glass of beer. A traditional way to eat leftover dumplings the next day for breakfast or brunch is to chop them into cubes, pan-fry in a bit of butter, add eggs and milk, and cook as if you are making scrambled eggs. It's great.

• Preparation Time: 45 mins
• Cooking Time: 55 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins
• Calories: 345 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs, beaten
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 2 teaspoons cold water
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 (16 ounce) jar sauerkraut - rinsed and drained
• 1 ½ cups milk, or as needed
• 4 cups dry white bread cubes
• 4 slices bacon, sliced into small strips

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Make a well in the center.

Step 2

Pour eggs and 1 cup milk into well; stir to blend, adding more milk to make a moist, battery dough, unlike pancake batter. Use a sturdy wooden spoon to beat dough for at least 200 strokes, rolling it over and over in the bowl until smooth and an occasional bubble appears on the surface. Add dry white bread cubes; stir into dough until they disappear.

Step 3

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Place dough onto a cheesecloth or white cotton cloth; form into a loaf shape. Wrap the cloth around loaf and tie ends.

Step 4

Place loaf into boiling water; cook 45 minutes, turning loaf over halfway through. Remove from water, unwrap, and cover with a tea towel. Let stand for 10 minutes.

Step 5

Fry bacon in a small skillet over medium-high heat until evenly browned. Set aside.

Step 6

Place drained sauerkraut into a saucepan; add water to cover the surface. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add bacon; season with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds. Stir together water and cornstarch; mix into sauerkraut and simmer for a few minutes before removing from heat.

Step 7

Slice dumpling loaf. Drizzle with bacon drippings from the pan. Serve with sauerkraut.