Demikát (Traditional Liptov Sheep-Cheese, Potato, Onion & Herb Soup) – Authentic Slovakia Recipe

Ancient shepherd’s soup from the Liptov valley whipping tangy sheep cheese into a warm caraway-potato broth.

Country of Origin
🇸🇰 Slovakia (Central Europe, Europe)
Dietary Profile
vegetarian
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Difficulty
Easy
Signature Staples
Cubed waxy potatoes, Caramelized onions, Creamy bryndza/feta sheep cheese and crispy croutons, Toasted caraway seeds, Sweet paprika

Ingredients for Demikát (Traditional Liptov Sheep-Cheese, Potato, Onion & Herb Soup) (4 Servings)

  • 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) cubed waxy potatoes, prepped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups caramelized onions, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup creamy bryndza/feta sheep cheese and crispy croutons
  • 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with toasted caraway seeds
  • 1.5 tbsp traditional Slovakia seasoning (sweet paprika, marjoram, fresh chives)
  • 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and toasted caraway seeds for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Stir in sweet paprika, marjoram, fresh chives and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Slovakia's kitchen.
  3. Add cubed waxy potatoes and caramelized onions, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
  4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
  5. Fold in creamy bryndza/feta sheep cheese and crispy croutons, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.

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