Ingredients for the dumplings:

• 4 cups peeled and grated potatoes
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Water (as needed)

Ingredients for the cheese sauce:

• 1 cup crumbled bryndza cheese (or a combination of feta and cottage cheese)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Ingredients for the topping (optional):

• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Chopped fresh chives or spring onions

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, and salt.
2. Gradually add water and knead the mixture until a sticky dough forms. The consistency should be thick but still able to hold together.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
4. Using a spoon or your hands, drop small portions of the potato dough into the boiling water. Cook until the dumplings rise to the surface, then let them cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the dumplings from the water using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a colander to drain excess water.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled bryndza cheese (or feta and cottage cheese) with sour cream. Mix until well combined.
7. Melt the butter in a skillet over low heat. Add the cheese mixture and stir until it is heated through and the cheese is melted.
8. Add the cooked dumplings to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Gently toss the dumplings to coat them evenly with the sauce.
9. If desired, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped chives or spring onions over the top for added flavor and presentation.
10. Serve the Bryndzové Halušky hot as a main dish or as a side dish to accompany meat or vegetables.

Bryndzové Halušky is considered a national dish of Slovakia and showcases the country’s love for potatoes and cheese. The soft and pillowy potato dumplings combined with the tangy and creamy sheep cheese sauce create a comforting and flavorful dish. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to experience authentic Slovak cuisine.