Classic Slovak Dumplings with Cabbage and Bacon

Holuski is a classic Slovak dish that consists of soft potato dumplings tossed with sautéed cabbage and crispy bacon. This flavorful and hearty dish is a favorite among Slovak households, often enjoyed during cold winter nights. The combination of tender dumplings, caramelized cabbage, and smoky bacon creates a perfect blend of flavors and textures. With a relatively short preparation time, you can easily recreate this comforting dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 large potatoes, peeled
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and cool.
2. Once cooled, grate the potatoes using a box grater into a mixing bowl.
3. Add the flour, eggs, and salt to the grated potatoes. Mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Divide the dough into quarters and roll each quarter into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the dumplings. Set aside.
7. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered fat.
8. In the same skillet with the rendered fat, sauté the onion until translucent.
9. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until it wilts and caramelizes slightly.
10. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
11. In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook until they rise to the surface, about 3-4 minutes.
12. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked dumplings to the skillet with the cabbage. Toss gently to coat the dumplings with the cabbage and bacon.
13. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
14. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

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