Bohemian Kolatchen Recipe

Bohemian Kolatchen Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
Kolatchen, also known as Kolaches, are a traditional Czech pastry that has become popular in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with a strong Czech heritage. The word "Kolache" originated from the Czech word "koláč," which means small cake or pastry. These delightful treats have a rich history that dates back centuries. They were first made in the Czech Republic during the Renaissance and have since become an integral part of Czech cuisine.

Kolatchen are typically enjoyed during special occasions, such as weddings, holidays, and festivals. They come in various shapes and fillings, including fruit, cheese, poppy seed, and sweet cream. The recipe for Bohemian Kolatchen has been passed down through generations, and today we will learn how to make these mouthwatering pastries.

Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mace
- 1 teaspoon anise seed, pounded (or flavor to taste)
- Stiffly-beaten egg white for brushing
- Granulated sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well and create a well in the center.

2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

3. Pour the yeast mixture into the well of the flour mixture. Add the melted butter, cinnamon, mace, and pounded anise seed.

4. Begin mixing the ingredients together, gradually incorporating the flour to form a sticky dough. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little more warm milk.

5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

6. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it back to the floured surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.

8. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out rounds measuring around three inches in diameter. Place them onto a well-buttered baking pan, leaving some space in between each kolatchen.

9. With your thumb or the handle of a wooden spoon, gently press down the center of each kolatchen to create a shallow well and raise a ridge around the edge.

10. Cover the kolatchen loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they appear puffy.

11. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the kolatchen are rising.

12. Once the kolatchen have risen, brush the top of each pastry with the stiffly-beaten egg white. Sprinkle generously with granulated sugar.

13. Bake the kolatchen in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown on the edges.

14. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your homemade Bohemian Kolatchen with a cup of coffee or tea, and savor the traditional flavors of Czech cuisine!

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Fruit Kolaches: Instead of adding the spices and anise seeds to the dough, these kolaches are filled with a sweet fruit jam or preserves. Simply place a spoonful of your favorite fruit filling in the well of each pastry before baking.

2. Cheese Kolaches: For a savory twist, fill the wells of the kolaches with a mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and herbs. These cheese-filled kolaches are perfect for breakfast or as an appetizer.

3. Poppy Seed Kolaches: Incorporate poppy seeds into the dough and create a delicious filling by combining ground poppy seeds, honey, and a touch of lemon zest. Fill the pastry wells with this mixture and bake until golden brown.

Regardless of the filling or flavor variations, kolaches are a delightful treat that will transport you to the taste of Czech tradition and culture. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and fillings to make these delicious pastries your own!