Plnení

Plnení is a Czech term that translates to "filling" or "stuffing" in English. It commonly refers to a culinary preparation where a food item is filled with another substance. This can range from sweet to savory applications, and the filling is often chosen to complement or enhance the flavor and texture of the outer ingredient.

In savory cuisine, plnení is frequently used with meats, poultry, and vegetables. For instance, whole chickens or ducks might be stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices before roasting, creating a moist and flavorful interior. Cabbage rolls, known as *holubky* or *vynuté zelí*, are another classic example, where a seasoned meat and rice filling is encased in blanched cabbage leaves and then simmered in a sauce. Stuffed peppers or mushrooms are also common variations.

Sweet plnení is equally prevalent. Doughs, such as those for pastries, dumplings, or cakes, can be filled with fruit preserves, sweetened cheese, poppy seeds, or nuts. *Koláče*, a type of sweet pastry, often feature a dollop of fruit filling or a sweet cheese mixture in the center. Sweet dumplings (*ovocné knedlíky*) are typically made from a soft dough that encases whole fruits like plums or apricots, which soften and release their juices during cooking. The concept of plnení emphasizes the interplay between the wrapper and the filling, creating a cohesive and satisfying dish.