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'''Kolach''' is a type of pastry that originates from the Slavic regions of Eastern Europe. It is traditionally made with a yeast dough and filled with various sweet or savory fillings.
{{short description|Traditional Central European pastry}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


== History ==
'''Kolach''' ({{lang-cs|koláč}}, {{lang-sk|koláč}}, {{lang-pl|kołacz}}) is a type of pastry that originated in Central Europe. It is a popular dessert in countries such as the [[Czech Republic]], [[Slovakia]], and [[Poland]]. The pastry is known for its round shape and is often filled with sweet ingredients such as fruit, poppy seeds, or cheese.


The history of the [[Kolach]] dates back to the pre-Christian times in Slavic regions. It was originally a symbol of good luck and was often used in pagan rituals. With the advent of Christianity, the Kolach became a staple food item in religious celebrations, especially during Christmas and Easter.
==History==
The kolach has a long history in Central European cuisine, with its origins tracing back to the times of the [[Austro-Hungarian Empire]]. It was traditionally made for special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and holidays. The name "kolach" is derived from the Old Slavonic word "kolo," meaning "circle" or "wheel," which reflects its round shape.


== Preparation ==
==Preparation==
The preparation of kolach involves making a sweet yeast dough, which is then rolled out and cut into circles. The dough is typically enriched with butter and eggs, giving it a rich and tender texture. After the dough is prepared, it is filled with various sweet fillings.


The preparation of a Kolach involves making a yeast dough, which is then filled with various fillings. The most common fillings are sweet, such as fruit preserves, poppy seed paste, or sweet cheese. However, savory fillings like sausage or ham are also used. The filled dough is then shaped into a round or square shape and baked until golden brown.
[[File:Postup_výroby_koláčů_(1).JPG|thumb|left|Preparation of kolach dough]]


== Variations ==
===Fillings===
Kolach can be filled with a variety of ingredients. Common fillings include:
* [[Poppy seed]]
* [[Quark (dairy product)|Quark]] or [[cream cheese]]
* [[Fruit preserves]] such as [[apricot]], [[plum]], or [[strawberry]]
* [[Nuts]] such as [[walnuts]] or [[almonds]]


There are many variations of the Kolach, depending on the region. In the Czech Republic, for example, the Kolach is often filled with poppy seeds or prune jam. In Ukraine, the Kolach is traditionally a round, braided bread that is served at Christmas. In the United States, particularly in areas with a large Czech or Slovak population, the Kolach is often a smaller, individual pastry filled with fruit or cheese.
[[File:Makovy_frgal.jpg|thumb|right|Kolach with poppy seed filling]]


== Cultural Significance ==
==Varieties==
There are several regional varieties of kolach, each with its own unique characteristics. In the Czech Republic, the "frgál" is a large, flat version of the kolach, often topped with a mixture of poppy seeds and fruit. In Slovakia, the "buchteln" is a similar pastry, but it is typically filled with jam or poppy seeds and baked in a pan.


The Kolach holds a significant place in Slavic culture. It is often used in weddings, funerals, and other important events. In some regions, it is customary to present a Kolach as a gift to guests. The Kolach is also a popular item in many Slavic festivals and celebrations.
[[File:Kolach.jpg|thumb|left|Traditional kolach with fruit filling]]


== See Also ==
==Cultural Significance==
Kolach is more than just a pastry; it holds cultural significance in many Central European countries. It is often associated with family gatherings and festive occasions. In some regions, kolach is also used in traditional wedding ceremonies, symbolizing prosperity and happiness for the newlyweds.


* [[List of pastries]]
==Modern Adaptations==
* [[Slavic cuisine]]
In recent years, kolach has gained popularity outside of Central Europe, particularly in the United States, where it has been adapted to include a variety of new fillings and flavors. The "Texas kolache," for example, is a savory version filled with sausage and cheese.
 
[[File:New_York-stylestrawberrykolache.jpg|thumb|right|New York-style strawberry kolach]]
 
==Related pages==
* [[Czech cuisine]]
* [[Czech cuisine]]
* [[Ukrainian cuisine]]
* [[Slovak cuisine]]
* [[Polish cuisine]]
* [[Pastry]]


[[Category:Pastries]]
[[Category:Pastries]]
[[Category:Slavic cuisine]]
[[Category:Czech cuisine]]
[[Category:Czech cuisine]]
[[Category:Ukrainian cuisine]]
[[Category:Slovak cuisine]]
 
[[Category:Polish cuisine]]
{{food-stub}}

Latest revision as of 14:11, 21 February 2025

Traditional Central European pastry



Kolach (Template:Lang-cs,

koláč[[Category:Slovak language|]] [[Category:Language icon templates|]]

, Polish: kołacz ) is a type of pastry that originated in Central Europe. It is a popular dessert in countries such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. The pastry is known for its round shape and is often filled with sweet ingredients such as fruit, poppy seeds, or cheese.

History[edit]

The kolach has a long history in Central European cuisine, with its origins tracing back to the times of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It was traditionally made for special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and holidays. The name "kolach" is derived from the Old Slavonic word "kolo," meaning "circle" or "wheel," which reflects its round shape.

Preparation[edit]

The preparation of kolach involves making a sweet yeast dough, which is then rolled out and cut into circles. The dough is typically enriched with butter and eggs, giving it a rich and tender texture. After the dough is prepared, it is filled with various sweet fillings.

Preparation of kolach dough

Fillings[edit]

Kolach can be filled with a variety of ingredients. Common fillings include:

Kolach with poppy seed filling

Varieties[edit]

There are several regional varieties of kolach, each with its own unique characteristics. In the Czech Republic, the "frgál" is a large, flat version of the kolach, often topped with a mixture of poppy seeds and fruit. In Slovakia, the "buchteln" is a similar pastry, but it is typically filled with jam or poppy seeds and baked in a pan.

Traditional kolach with fruit filling

Cultural Significance[edit]

Kolach is more than just a pastry; it holds cultural significance in many Central European countries. It is often associated with family gatherings and festive occasions. In some regions, kolach is also used in traditional wedding ceremonies, symbolizing prosperity and happiness for the newlyweds.

Modern Adaptations[edit]

In recent years, kolach has gained popularity outside of Central Europe, particularly in the United States, where it has been adapted to include a variety of new fillings and flavors. The "Texas kolache," for example, is a savory version filled with sausage and cheese.

New York-style strawberry kolach

Related pages[edit]