Rajská omáčka
Rajská Omáčka, often referred to as sweet tomato sauce, is a cherished dish that occupies a special place in the hearts of the Czech people. It’s a culinary treasure that brings to mind fond memories of childhood, where it was often served in schools and kindergartens, becoming an integral part of Czech family meals. The rich, comforting qualities of this sauce make it a beloved classic, a reminder of home-cooked meals, and a dish that unites generations over shared tables.
This unique tomato sauce stands apart from others in global cuisines due to its distinctive sweet-and-sour flavor balance. Unlike the conventional tomato sauces found elsewhere, Rajská Omáčka places more emphasis on the aromatic spices that give it a layered and intriguing taste. The primary flavors are enriched by the inclusion of bay leaves, allspice, and black pepper, which create a deeper, more complex base. In some homes, a hint of cinnamon is added, lending warmth and depth to the overall profile of the sauce, making it both comforting and subtly fragrant.
Once simmered, Rajská Omáčka transforms into a velvety, silky sauce with a creamy texture. Traditionally, it is paired with slices of tender boiled beef, absorbing the sauce’s rich flavors, or bell peppers stuffed with minced pork, making for a satisfying and hearty meal. Of course, no serving of this sauce is complete without a side of fluffy, pillowy Czech dumplings, which perfectly soak up the sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors on the plate.
This dish not only represents the simplicity and warmth of Czech home cooking but also serves as a culinary symbol of tradition and nostalgia, embodying the essence of Czech family gatherings and hearty meals.
Traditional Rajská omáčka recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 500 ml (2 cups) of vegetable or beef broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (400g) or 500g of fresh tomatoes, blended
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 4-5 whole allspice
- 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 200 ml (¾ cup) of sour cream
- 1-2 teaspoons of sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1-2 teaspoons of white vinegar (to balance the sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Prepare the onion:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and golden. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the onion, forming a solid base for your sauce.
Create the roux:
Once the onion is soft and caramelized, sprinkle the flour over the onions. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This step is essential for thickening the sauce and ensuring a smooth, velvety consistency.
Add the broth and tomatoes:
Gradually pour in the broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Follow by adding the diced or blended tomatoes, bay leaves, allspice, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the flavors to meld together. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Blend for smoothness:
Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the spices have infused, remove the bay leaves and allspice. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until silky and creamy.
Add the sour cream:
Reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream, blending it into the sauce until completely combined. This will give the sauce its signature creamy texture and slight tang. Be careful not to bring it to a boil at this stage, as the sour cream might curdle with high heat.
Sweeten and balance:
Taste the sauce and adjust it to your liking. Add sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar to introduce a touch of tanginess. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Simmer for flavor:
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to further develop and meld together. The sauce should now have a creamy, rich consistency, perfect for pairing with beef or pork.
Serve and enjoy:
Serve the Rajská Omáčka hot, paired with slices of tender boiled beef or stuffed bell peppers with minced pork. Complete the meal with traditional Czech dumplings or boiled potatoes, allowing the sauce to soak into the dumplings for an unforgettable taste experience. For an authentic Czech touch, you can also serve the dish with a side of pickled vegetables.
Rajská Omáčka is more than just a dish—it’s a taste of Czech tradition that evokes warmth and nostalgia, bringing comfort to every meal. Whether served for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this rich, flavorful sauce will always find a place at the Czech table.
