Koprová omáčka
A cherished gem of Czech cuisine, Koprová omáčka is a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly balances creamy texture with the fresh, aromatic essence of dill. This traditional dish is often served with tender boiled beef or pork, accompanied by classic Czech sides such as fluffy dumplings (knedlíky) or simple boiled potatoes. The combination of smooth, slightly tangy sauce with the hearty flavors of the meat makes it a staple in Czech households, enjoyed by generations.
What makes this dish stand out is its signature ingredient—fresh dill—which infuses the sauce with a vibrant, slightly zesty note. The preparation is straightforward yet rewarding, allowing the natural flavors of quality ingredients to shine through. The base of the sauce is created using a roux, butter, and milk or cream, which gives it its distinctive silkiness. Vinegar is often added to enhance the dish with a gentle acidity that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce.
Though Koprová omáčka is simple in its preparation, it holds a strong cultural significance. It is often associated with home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and comforting, hearty dining experiences. Whether served as a weekend delicacy or a midweek favorite, this sauce embodies the essence of Czech culinary tradition. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of creamy indulgence and refreshing herbal notes, making it a timeless classic in Czech gastronomy.
Traditional Czech dish recipe: Koprová omáčka
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 500 ml (2 cups) beef or vegetable broth (depending on your preference)
- 200 ml (3/4 cup) sour cream (for creaminess and tang)
- A generous handful of fresh dill, finely chopped (around 2 tablespoons)
- 1-2 teaspoons white vinegar (adjust to your taste for acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Sauté the onion:
Begin by heating the butter in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and golden. The natural sweetness of the onion will start to caramelize, creating a rich foundation for the sauce.
Prepare the roux:
Once the onion has softened and taken on a light golden color, add the flour to the pot. Stir the mixture constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux . This will help thicken the sauce later on and give it a smooth, velvety texture.
Add the broth:
Gradually pour in the broth of your choice (beef or vegetable) while stirring to ensure that no lumps form. Once the broth is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The combination of onion and roux will create a silky base for the sauce to develop its flavor.
Simmer the sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken the sauce and concentrate the flavors. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the sauce will become.
Stir in the sour cream:
Reduce the heat and add the sour cream to the pot. Stir the sauce until the sour cream is fully blended into the broth, creating a smooth, creamy consistency. Be careful not to bring the sauce to a boil, as high heat can cause the sour cream to curdle. The addition of sour cream enhances the creaminess of the sauce while adding a mild tangy flavor that balances the richness.
Add dill and vinegar:
Once the sour cream is fully incorporated, stir in the freshly chopped dill. Dill is the key ingredient that gives Koprová omáčka its characteristic fresh, aromatic flavor. Add the white vinegar to bring a touch of acidity, which cuts through the richness of the sauce and adds a subtle tang. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper according to your preferences.
Simmer to infuse the flavors:
Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes. This gives the dill time to infuse its flavor into the sauce, making it even more fragrant and aromatic.
Final adjustments:
If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more broth or water. Stir to combine and let it heat through.
Serve and enjoy:
Serve the Koprová omáčka hot, alongside boiled beef or pork. This dish pairs perfectly with classic Czech sides such as dumplings (knedlíky), boiled potatoes, or even rice. For an authentic touch, garnish with a side of pickled vegetables or a spoonful of cranberry sauce to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
This simple yet flavorful dish is a quintessential Czech comfort food, offering a satisfying balance of rich, creamy textures and fresh, herby flavors. Whether enjoyed at a family meal or a special gathering, Koprová omáčka brings a taste of Czech tradition to your table.
