| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 245 | 18g | 11g | 14g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 1g | 8g | 0.6g |
Why I Love Czech Bílá omáčka
Every now and then, I stumble upon a recipe that transports me far beyond my mountain abode, and today’s feature, Bílá omáčka, does just that. This creamy, savory Czech sauce has a way of warming both the body and the soul. With each spoonful, I can almost feel the cozy embrace of a European grandmothers’ kitchen, filled with the rich aromas of simmering butter and frying garlic. The Bílá omáčka is not just a sauce, but a journey, and I’d love to take you along.
Memories in Each Spoonful
When I first came across this recipe, it was in the well-thumbed pages of a cookbook by Julia Child, an inspiring chef whose work continues to influence my culinary adventures. Julia’s take on traditional European dishes often features the essence of home-cooked comfort, much like the Bílá omáčka. This sauce has roots similar to French béchamel or even a creamy alfredo but offers a distinct tang thanks to the vinegar and sour cream. It’s this unique combination of ingredients that elevates it to something truly special. Imagine dining on a plate of tender venison or roasted chicken draped in this luxurious sauce—it’s an experience to savor.
Pairs Perfectly with Hearty Dishes
As someone who enjoys hearty, rustic fare, I find that Bílá omáčka effortlessly complements a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re ladling it over grilled trout or spooning it atop a venison steak, the rich yet tangy flavor profile of this sauce enhances the natural flavors of the meats. It’s also a fabulous accompaniment to roasted vegetables and even works well with simple boiled potatoes, making it both versatile and indispensable in my kitchen.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry—milk, sour cream, flour, butter, onion, garlic, vinegar, and a few seasonings. But it’s the way these simple ingredients come together that creates a sauce with layers of flavor. The simmering butter forms the base, while the sautéed onions and garlic add depth, and the vinegar and sour cream introduce a delightful tanginess, finished off with a touch of sweetness from the sugar.
In the end, each spoonful is a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy, savory and sweet. It’s the kind of recipe that makes me excited to get in the kitchen, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home as well. Whether enjoyed on a cozy winter evening or as part of a special dinner, Bílá omáčka is a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients are treated with care and love.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons of butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
Method
Step One
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step Three
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step Four
Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to create a smooth mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Five
Stir in the sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and ground black pepper. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
Step Six
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and serve the Bílá omáčka hot over your preferred dish.
