A Classical Czech Deli-Style Salad Recipe

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Czech cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, and among its many jewels is the Pochoutkový Salát, a deli salad that promises to bring the vibrant streets of Prague right to your dining table. This salad blends the robust flavors of deli ham and pickles with the creamy texture of mayonnaise, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshingly tangy.

Where to Find the Best Deli Salad in Prague?

For a genuine taste of Czech pochoutkový salát, make your way to the Zlatý Kříž deli located in Jungmannovo Square. Boasting a wide selection, they are renowned for serving some of the finest salads in town. Make sure to get some fresh Czech pastry to enjoy it with!

While this dish can be found across various eateries in Prague, nothing beats the satisfaction of making it in your own kitchen. It’s a staple at family gatherings and picnics, offering a taste of Czech tradition that’s both simple and sublime. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can whip up this delightful salad with ease.

What You’ll Need:

• 400 g of deli ham, ready to be sliced into flavor-packed strips
• 180 g of sterilized pickles, for that tangy crunch
• 55 g of sterilized peas, adding sweetness and texture
• 25.5 g of onion, finely chopped for a sharp bite
• 300 g of creamy mayonnaise, for that rich, smooth base
• 20 g of full-fat mustard, bringing in a touch of spice
• 10 g of granulated sugar, to balance the tanginess
• 6 g of vinegar, for a subtle acidic kick
• 8 g of Worcestershire sauce, to deepen the flavors
• 5 g of salt, to taste
• 0.5 g of ground pepper, for a slight heat

Instructions for a Perfect Salad:

1. Start by slicing the deli ham and pickles into thin strips, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor. Peel and finely chop the onion to add a crisp texture to the mix.
2. Take a large mixing bowl and combine the tangy pickles, sweet canned peas, and sharp onion.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, robust mustard, vinegar, and sugar along with a dash of ground pepper and creamy mayonnaise, blending until the mixture is well-combined.
4. Gently fold in the deli ham, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the salad. Season with salt carefully, considering the inherent saltiness of the ham and mayonnaise.
5. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator, letting the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Serving Suggestions: This Czech Deli Salad transcends the ordinary side dish, offering a symphony of textures and flavors. Best enjoyed chilled, it pairs wonderfully with fresh Czech pastry, particularly traditional sour-dough bread or white flour bread rolls, enhancing its taste. It’s also a common topping for a typical Czech open-faced sandwich.

There you have it, a simple yet delicious Czech Deli Salad that brings a slice of Prague into your home. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to the Czech Republic or exploring its cuisine, this salad is a must-try. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

For those who’ve enjoyed this recipe and are eager to dive deeper into Czech culinary traditions, check-out our Potato Salad recipe for a traditional Czech Christmas dinner.

February 20, 2024