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A Taste of Slovakia: Traditional Slovak Pastries

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Let’s continue in the mouth-watering exploration of Slovak culinary tradition. In the first part, we got to know the most popular traditional Slovak dishes. This time, there will be something for your sweet tooth as we delve into the world of Slovak pastries.

Bratislavské rožky (Bratislava Rolls)

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These beloved horseshoe-shaped pastries are stuffed with poppy seeds or walnuts and are on the list of traditional specialties guaranteed protection under EU law. The exact origins of the rolls cannot be precisely dated. However, the first written mention of Bratislava rolls, known as "bajgle," is found in a document from the Bratislava baker's guild dating back to 1599. Bratislavské rožky are characterized by a distinctive surface, which is marbled (finely mottled with lighter coloring than the rest of the upper crust). Do you know how to recognize the poppy seed ones from the walnut ones? The poppy seed ones are more horseshoe-shaped, while the walnut ones resemble the letter C. If you spot Bratislavské rožky somewhere in a café, be sure to give them a try!

Skalický trdelnik (Skalica Spit Cake)

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Skalický trdelník is a cylinder-shaped pastry sprinkled with baked nuts. The tradition of making Skalický trdelník is passed down from generation to generation. The cylindrical shape of the trdelník is achieved by wrapping a thin strip of dough around a wooden rod known as a "trdlo". While you can find many stands throughout Slovakia selling trdelník with various flavours, the original Skalica trdelník can only be purchased in the Skalica region. If you appreciate good food when planning your trips, Skalica might be your next choice.

Makovník/orechovník/tvarohovník (Poppy Seed/Walnut/Quark Roll)

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These rolls are timeless favourites. This traditional treat features a sweet yeast dough filled with a generous layer of filling (that's how you recognize the good ones from the bad ones). The quark filling is often combined with raisins. You can enjoy the rolls during festive occasions or as a delightful accompaniment to morning or afternoon coffee. The rolls can also be bought in the grocery shop, but freshly baked is, of course, the best. What would be your go-to flavour?

How do you like these Slovak sweet delights? Which one of the pastries would you like to taste? You can share your taste bud preferences with the rest of the community here.