mákem

Mákem is the instrumental singular form of the Czech noun mák, meaning poppy seed. It is used in Czech to indicate that something is prepared with or contains poppy seeds, as in koláč s mákem (poppy seed cake) or maková náplň (poppy seed filling). In Slovak, the corresponding form is makom. The base mák appears in many Central European culinary terms and decorations, and the instrumental form can appear after prepositions or in descriptive phrases.

Culinary use and dishes involving mák are widespread in Czech, Slovak, and other Central European cuisines. Poppy seeds are commonly ground or left whole to create fillings for pastries such as makový koláč, makový závin (poppy seed roll), and makové rožky. They are often mixed with sugar, honey, or milk to form a sweet, nutty filling, and can also be sprinkled whole on breads and pastries. The term makový describes foods containing poppy seeds, while makem appears in phrases indicating the ingredient in use.

Etymology and language notes: mák stems from a Proto-Slavic root meaning poppy. The word has cognates in many Slavic languages, such as mak in Polish and мак in Russian, and forms like makový or makový náplně are common across the region.

Nutritional and storage notes: poppy seeds are small, energy-dense seeds rich in fats, fiber, and minerals. They should be stored in a cool, dry place and used in moderation due to high fat content and potential traces of opiate alkaloids in raw form.