Christmas is not only a time of joy, but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in traditions that have their own irresistible atmosphere. The smell of sweets is one of the most striking reminders of the holiday season, and yet many old Czech recipes are now being forgotten. So let’s remember the old days and give them a place on our holiday table again.
The Christmas holidays are a time when tradition meets modern ideas. Although most households today enjoy classic Linnaeus or gingerbread, the old Bohemian candy remains in the background. It’s a shame, because these recipes hide a unique taste and aroma that reminds of a time when Christmas was calmer and the ingredients were more natural. Nuts played a major role in many of these recipes – an available ingredient that adds rich flavor and texture to the candy.
On video from Check out Easy Homemade Recipes with a recipe for great Christmas almond cookies on YouTube:
Source: Youtube
Nuts as the basis of old Czech recipes
In the past, nuts were commonplace in every household. They were collected in the fall and served as an indispensable ingredient in baking during the winter. Nuts were valued for their nutritional value, long shelf life and distinctive taste. In addition, the old recipes did not require a lot of exotic ingredients – a combination of nuts, eggs, sugar and a little skill was enough.
“In general, nuts are rich in phytosterols, which lower cholesterol levels in the body. This may sound like good news to many people, but almost all hormones in the body are produced from cholesterol. That’s why a balanced diet is important,” explains how nuts work, David Buchta, a healthy lifestyle expert.
Honey walnut patties
Honey cakes were one of the most popular types of sweets. They were made from ground nuts, honey and cinnamon. The mixture was formed into small balls, which were allowed to harden in a cool place. The result was a sweetness with an intense aroma of honey and a delicate nutty taste. This recipe required no baking, so even the kids could do it.
Walnut tubes
Another jewel of the Czech Christmas was walnut tubes. The dough made of nuts and egg whites was formed into thin slices, which after baking were rolled into tubes. They were filled with homemade jam or butter cream. The tubes were light, tender and full of flavor thanks to the nuts.
Vanilla Nut Balls
The predecessor of modern vanilla rolls was prepared in the shape of small balls. Ground nuts were mixed with sugar and butter to form a dough that was easy to shape. After baking, the balls were coated in icing sugar with vanilla. This recipe is simple and still relevant.
Traditional walnut cakes
The walnut cakes were a small work of art. Small cakes were formed from the dough of ground nuts, sugar and eggs, which were decorated with nuts or candied fruit after baking. Cakes were a luxury that families saved for Christmas Day.
Why are old Czech recipes disappearing?
The main reason why Old Bohemian sweets are hardly baked today is a change in lifestyle. Modern recipes offer quick and easy alternatives that do not require so much time or manual skills. Another factor is the availability of exotic ingredients that displace traditional ingredients such as nuts.
Back to the roots
Baking Old Bohemian cookies can be a pleasant way to remember the traditions of our ancestors. Many of these recipes are not only tasty, but also healthier thanks to natural ingredients. In addition, the involvement of children in the preparation can bring joy and new experiences to the whole family.
Old Bohemian walnut confectionery offers a return to simplicity, natural flavors and Christmas traditions. Whether it’s honey patties, walnut tubes or vanilla balls, all these recipes have their own charm. Maybe it’s time to give them another chance and enrich the holiday table with a piece of history that still smells like Christmas.
Source: www.youtube.com, www.iprima.cz, www.bydlet.cz
