Czech Svíčková (Svíčková)

Svíčková is a traditional Czech dish that consists of marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy vegetable sauce. It is a popular and hearty meal in Central European cuisine.

Gluten Free Dairy Free If Using Dairy Free Alternatives Main Course Central European Czech Cuisine Beef Creamy Sauce
Czech Svíčková (Svíčková)

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg beef sirloin
  • 2 onions
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the beef sirloin in a mixture of vinegar, vegetable broth, sliced onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and cumin for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the beef in a hot pan until browned on all sides.
  4. Transfer the beef to a pot and pour the marinade over it. Simmer for 1.5-2 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Remove the beef from the pot and strain the vegetables from the marinade. Discard the vegetables and return the liquid to the pot.
  6. Whisk in the flour and sugar, then add the heavy cream. Simmer the sauce until it thickens.
  7. Slice the beef and serve with the creamy vegetable sauce.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
450 per serving
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
25g

Supplies

Large pot Frying pan Whisk Knife Cutting board

Tools

Meat thermometer Tongs Strainer

Serving suggestions

Svíčková is traditionally served with bread dumplings and cranberry sauce.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the marinade.

Cost

$25