Strapačky s Kyslou Kapustou a Údeným Mäsom
A hearty and traditional Slovak dish featuring potato dumplings (strapačky) mixed with sauerkraut and smoked meat, offering a comforting and savory flavor profile.

🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and grated)
- 250 g All-purpose flour
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 500 g Sauerkraut(drained and chopped)
- 250 g Smoked pork belly(diced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Oil or lard
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the potato dough: Squeeze excess water from grated potatoes. Mix with flour, eggs, and salt until a thick batter forms. It should be scoopable but not runny.
💡 Tip: The consistency is key; adjust flour or potato moisture as needed. - 2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
💡 Tip: Ensure water is vigorously boiling to cook the dumplings properly. - 3
Cook the dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the potato dough into the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary. - 4
Prepare the topping: In a separate large pan, heat oil or lard over medium heat. Add diced smoked pork belly and cook until crispy. Remove pork with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- 5
Add chopped onion to the pan with the rendered fat and sauté until golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 6
Add the drained and chopped sauerkraut to the pan with onions and garlic. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is tender and slightly caramelized.
- 7
Combine: Add the cooked dumplings and crispy smoked pork back into the pan with the sauerkraut mixture. Toss everything together gently to combine. Season with black pepper.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning. Some sauerkraut can be quite salty, so add salt cautiously if needed. - 8
Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The texture of the strapačky is crucial; aim for a firm but tender dumpling.
- ✓Using good quality smoked pork adds significant flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of sauerkraut to your preference; some like it more tart, others prefer it milder.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a bay leaf to the sauerkraut while it cooks for extra aroma.
- For a richer flavor, use duck fat instead of oil or lard.
- Serve with a side of pickled mushrooms.