Discover how to make Bryndzové Halušky, Slovakia's beloved national dish! This easy-to-follow recipe combines tender potato dumplings with tangy sheep cheese and crispy bacon for a deliciously hearty meal. Perfect for anyone looking to experience authentic Slovak cuisine. Try this traditional dish and enjoy a taste of Slovakia at home!

Ingredients:

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated

- 1 large egg

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 200g (7 oz) sheep cheese (Bryndza), crumbled

- 200g (7 oz) bacon, diced

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Potato Mixture:

  - Place the grated potatoes in a large bowl. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

  - In the same bowl, add the egg, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Cook the Dumplings:

  - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato dough into the boiling water. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

  - Boil the dumplings until they float to the surface, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate.

Prepare the Bacon:

  - In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Combine Ingredients:

  - In a large bowl, toss the cooked dumplings with the crumbled sheep cheese and crispy bacon. 

Serve:

  - Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Slovak classic!

Notes:

- Bryndzové Halušky is best enjoyed immediately while the dumplings are still warm and the cheese is creamy. 

- For an authentic taste, use traditional Slovak sheep cheese (Bryndza) if available.

Nutritional values

Potatoes (4 large, peeled and grated, approximately 800g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 77

   - Protein: 2g

   - Carbohydrates: 17g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy, vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. Supports overall health and digestion.

Large Egg (1):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per egg):

   - Calories: 70

   - Protein: 6g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 5g

Benefits: Rich in protein, vitamins D and B12, and minerals like selenium and choline. Supports muscle health and overall nutrition.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup, approximately 120g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 364

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 76g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Provides energy through carbohydrates and some protein. Enriches the dish with texture.

Salt (1 teaspoon, approximately 6g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 0

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Essential for flavor enhancement and electrolyte balance. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon, approximately 2g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 53

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 13g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Leavening agent that helps the dish rise and achieve a light texture. Minimal nutritional impact.

Sheep Cheese (Bryndza, 200g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 300

   - Protein: 18g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 25g

  - Benefits: High in protein and calcium. Rich in flavor and supports bone health. 

Bacon (200g, diced):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 541

   - Protein: 37g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 42g

Benefits: Adds flavor and richness. High in protein but also high in fat and sodium. Consume in moderation.

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon or 15ml):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100ml):

   - Calories: 884

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 100g

  - Benefits: Provides essential fatty acids and helps with cooking. Adds texture and flavor to the dish.

Fresh Chives (for garnish, approximate 1 tablespoon or 4g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 30

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 7g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Adds a fresh flavor and provides vitamins A and C. Contains antioxidants and supports digestion.