slepí

Slepí is a traditional Czech and Slovak dish primarily made from boiled potatoes, onions, and pork fat or bacon. The name derives from the Czech word *slepý*, meaning "blind," likely referencing the dish's simple, unadorned appearance. This hearty, rustic meal has been a staple in Central European cuisine for centuries, particularly in rural areas where ingredients were often limited.

The dish is prepared by boiling potatoes until tender, then mashing or chopping them. Onions are sautéed in pork fat or bacon until caramelized, and the mixture is combined with the potatoes. Some variations include the addition of salt, pepper, or other seasonings, though the dish remains minimalist in flavor. Slepí is often served as a side dish or a filling for other meals, such as dumplings or stuffed cabbage rolls.

Historically, slepí was a practical way to use up leftover potatoes and pork, making it a cost-effective and nourishing option. It remains popular in folk cuisine and is sometimes enjoyed as a comforting, nostalgic dish. While not as widely known outside Central Europe, slepí reflects the resourcefulness and simplicity of traditional peasant cooking. Its preparation methods and ingredients have remained largely unchanged over time, preserving its authentic character.