Indulge in the hearty flavors of Czech cuisine with our signature dish, Knedlo, Vepřo, Zelo. This iconic Czech trio embodies the essence of comfort food, showcasing tender roast pork (vepřo), served alongside fluffy bread dumplings (knedlo) and tangy sauerkraut (zelo). Each component of this classic dish is carefully prepared to perfection, offering a harmonious blend of savory and sour notes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur of Czech cuisine or embarking on a culinary adventure, Knedlo, Vepřo, Zelo promises a truly authentic dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Czech Republic.

Ingredients:

For the Dumplings (Knedlo):

• 500g (about 4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 250ml (about 1 cup) milk
• 20g (about 1 ½ tablespoons) butter

For the Roast Pork (Vepřo):

• 1 kg (about 2.2 pounds) pork shoulder or pork loin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauerkraut (Zelo):

• 500g (about 1 pound) sauerkraut, drained
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)

Instructions:

Dumplings (Knedlo):

1- In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and melted butter.

2- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.

3- Divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into oblong dumplings.

4- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

5- Remove the dumplings from the water and drain.

Roast Pork (Vepřo):

1- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2- Season the pork shoulder or loin generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.

3- Heat vegetable oil in a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned.

4- Transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven and roast the pork for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F). Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Sauerkraut (Zelo):

1- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

2- Add the drained sauerkraut and caraway seeds to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).

3- Cook the sauerkraut mixture for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the flavors meld together.

Serve the sliced roast pork alongside the dumplings and sauerkraut. Enjoy this classic Czech dish with a dollop of mustard on the side for an authentic taste experience!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in Czech Republic Knedlo, Vepřo, Zelo:

Dumplings (Knedlo):

All-purpose flour (500g):

• Calories: 1800
• Carbohydrates: 375g
• Protein: 50g
• Fat: 5g

benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy and small amounts of protein.

Eggs (2 large):

• Calories: 140
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g

benefits: Excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium.

Milk (250ml):

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 5g

benefits: Good source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, essential for bone health and muscle growth.

Butter (20g):

• Calories: 140
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 16g

benefits: Contains fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, E, and K, and provides essential fatty acids necessary for brain and hormone function.

Roast Pork (Vepřo):

Pork shoulder or loin (1kg):

• Calories: 2400
• Protein: 200g
• Fat: 160g

benefits: Rich in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, important for muscle function, energy production, and immune health.

Sauerkraut (Zelo):

Sauerkraut (500g):

• Calories: 100
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Fermented cabbage rich in probiotics, aiding in digestion and supporting gut health.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Contains antioxidants like quercetin and sulfur compounds that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 28g

benefits: Provides healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.

Caraway seeds (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, aiding in digestion and providing potential benefits for heart health.

Sugar (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 45
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation to avoid negative health effects such as weight gain and dental issues.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and cooking methods.