Pepólování

Pepólování is a Czech term referring to the process of pitting or removing the seeds from fruits, particularly stone fruits like cherries, plums, or apricots. It is a preparatory step often undertaken before the fruit is used in cooking, baking, or for preservation methods such as canning or making jam. The term itself derives from the Czech word "pecka," meaning "stone" or "pit."

The primary tool used for pepólování is a specialized pitting device, often called a "pepovačka" in Czech. These devices can range from simple manual tools that press the pit through the fruit to more automated machines. For smaller quantities, a knife or even a sharpened stick can be used, though this is a more labor-intensive method. The goal is to remove the hard central pit while keeping the fruit as intact as possible, especially if it is intended for recipes where whole or halved fruit is desired.

Pepólování is a common practice in Central European culinary traditions, especially in countries like the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where fruits like cherries and plums are abundant and frequently used in a variety of desserts and other dishes. Removing the pits is essential for both palatability and safety, as pits can contain small amounts of cyanide compounds, although the risk from occasional consumption is generally considered minimal. The process ensures that the fruit is ready for immediate use or storage.