Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream

Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream Recipe - Authentic Czech Republic Dish

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream is a traditional dish that is popular in Slovakia. This refreshing and creamy salad is perfect for hot summer days and makes a great side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Slovak families. Cucumbers are a staple ingredient in Slovak cuisine, and this dish is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy them. The combination of sour cream, garlic, and vinegar gives the cucumbers a tangy and creamy flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
4 tbsp sour cream
1 clove of garlic, chopped
0.25 tsp salt
1 tbsp vinegar
1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced (Optional)
1 dash of paprika, for color

How to prepare

Combine the cucumbers, garlic, and salt in a colander.
Place the colander in the sink and let it stand for 0.5 hour.
Squeeze out as much water as possible using your hands.
Transfer the cucumber mixture to a bowl and add the sour cream and vinegar.
Optionally, you can also add thinly sliced onions at this point.
Mix well and sprinkle with paprika for added color.

Variations

Add fresh dill or parsley for added flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier alternative.
Add chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and thinly slice the cucumbers for the best texture.

- Let the cucumber mixture sit in the colander for at least 30 minutes to drain excess water.

- Squeeze out as much water as possible from the cucumbers before adding the sour cream and vinegar.

- For added flavor, you can also add thinly sliced sweet onions to the salad.

- Sprinkle with paprika before serving for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. It pairs well with traditional Slovak dishes such as bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) or schnitzel.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream is to let the cucumber mixture drain in a colander to remove excess water. This will ensure that the salad is not watery and has a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or mayonnaise as a substitute. You can also use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cucumber mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just be sure to mix in the sour cream and vinegar right before serving to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream in a decorative bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika for added color. You can also add a sprig of fresh dill or parsley for a touch of freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with grilled meats such as chicken or pork. It also goes well with traditional Slovak dishes such as halušky (dumplings) or pirohy (filled dumplings).

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let the salad come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream contains approximately 70 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and garlic.

Summary

Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream is a low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamin C and potassium. It is a great option for those looking for a light and refreshing side dish.

Summary

Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for summer. With its tangy and creamy flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional Slovak recipe as a side dish or light lunch for a taste of Slovak cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my Aunt Maria in the countryside of Slovakia. She was known for her delicious cooking and I always looked forward to her meals. One summer afternoon, as we sat in her sunny kitchen, she began to prepare a simple side dish that would forever change my culinary world.

As Aunt Maria sliced the fresh cucumbers and onions, the sharp aroma filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation. She then mixed them together in a bowl with a generous amount of sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and dill. The tangy smell of the sour cream mixed with the sweet scent of the dill created a heavenly aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

I watched intently as Aunt Maria stirred the ingredients together, her hands moving with a practiced ease that only comes from years of experience. She explained to me that this dish was a traditional Slovak recipe that had been passed down through generations of our family. The combination of the cool cucumbers, creamy sour cream, and tangy vinegar was a perfect balance of flavors that would pair beautifully with any meal.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream and was instantly transported to a world of delicious flavors and comforting warmth. The crunch of the fresh cucumbers mixed with the creamy sour cream created a delightful texture that danced on my taste buds. The tangy vinegar cut through the richness of the cream, adding a bright and refreshing contrast to the dish.

From that moment on, I was determined to learn how to make this dish for myself. Aunt Maria graciously shared her recipe with me, guiding me through each step with patience and kindness. I took notes diligently, making sure to capture every detail and secret ingredient that made this dish so special.

Over the years, I have made Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream countless times, each time bringing back memories of that summer day in Aunt Maria's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with the simple yet delicious flavors of this traditional Slovak dish.

As I grow older, I realize the significance of preserving these family recipes and passing them down to future generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my heritage and honor the traditions of my ancestors. The recipe for Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream is not just a dish, but a piece of my family's history that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it.

So, as I prepare this dish once again, I am grateful for the memories it holds and the love it represents. And as I sit down to enjoy a plate of Slovak Cucumbers in Sour Cream, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and keep traditions alive.