Olomouc Cheese Tartare
Some recipes do not require expensive ingredients or complicated techniques. All they need is bold flavor, honest ingredients, and a little patience.
Olomouc Cheese Tartare – A Traditional Czech Beer Snack with a Modern Twist
Olomouc Cheese Tartare is a traditional Central European specialty that has long been popular in Czech pubs and Moravian taverns. This flavorful cheese spread combines the distinctive aroma of aged Olomouc cheese with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion, pickles, and spices. The result is a rich and savory cheese tartare that pairs beautifully with beer, wine, or as an original appetizer for guests.
If you enjoy Olomouc cheese or German Harzer cheese, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Simple ingredients. Big flavor. The perfect companion to a glass of wine or a well-chilled beer.
Why This Recipe Works
- Olomouc cheese delivers a bold and unmistakable flavor.
- Onion adds freshness and gentle sharpness.
- Mustard and Worcestershire sauce provide depth and complexity.
- Pickles contribute a pleasant acidity.
- Paprika and chili balance the intensity of the cheese.
- A short resting time allows the flavors to fully develop.
- An optional egg yolk creates a richer and creamier texture.
The result is a bold, aromatic, and surprisingly addictive cheese tartare.
Ingredients (4–6 servings)
- 200 g Olomouc cheese (Olomoucké tvarůžky)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp wholegrain or classic mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- a pinch of chili flakes or chili powder
- 1 small pickle, finely diced
- freshly ground black pepper
Optional:
- 1 fresh egg yolk
- 1–2 tbsp quality ketchup
Substitution:
- replace Olomouc cheese with 200 g German Harzer cheese
Instructions
- Finely chop the Olomouc cheese into small pieces.
- Finely dice the onion.
- Finely chop the pickle.
- Combine the cheese, onion, and pickle in a bowl.
- Add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, chili, and freshly ground black pepper.
- If using the egg yolk, add it at this stage.
- For a milder and slightly sweeter version, add 1–2 tablespoons of ketchup.
- Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- For the best flavor, allow the tartare to mature overnight.
TGCC Tip
The best Olomouc Cheese Tartare is not served immediately after mixing.
Allow it to rest for several hours, ideally overnight. The onion softens the sharpness of the cheese while all flavors gradually blend into a balanced and complex spread.
If Olomouc cheese feels too intense, substitute it with German Harzer cheese. It offers a similar character while being slightly milder and creamier.
For a richer texture, add one fresh egg yolk. For a nostalgic Czech pub-style version, try adding one or two tablespoons of ketchup.
Serving Suggestions
- garlic toast
- toasted sourdough bread
- rye bread
- fresh baguette
- pickles
- pickled onions
- radishes
- fresh chives or microgreens
Wine Pairing
Although Olomouc Cheese Tartare is traditionally served with beer, it pairs surprisingly well with several fresh white wines.
Recommended Wines
- Grüner Veltliner
- Riesling
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Dry Brut Sparkling Wine
The lively acidity of these wines balances the intense aroma of the cheese while refreshing the palate between bites.
Recipe Details
Type: Spread / Cold Appetizer / Beer Snack
Cuisine: Czech / Moravian / Central European
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 30 minutes to 12 hours
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Difficulty: Easy
