Houska

Houska is a popular Czech bread roll, simple and small in size. It is made with plain wheat flour, milk, yeast, salt, and, occasionally, eggs. Before baking, it is usually braided and shaped into a plump circular form resembling a knot. The top is sprinkled with coarse sea salt, and either caraway or poppy seeds. Baked houska is light in color; it has a crispy exterior and a light, soft center. The roll can be bought in most Czech supermarkets and bakeries. It is often consumed for breakfast, when it is served alongside a variety of sweet and savory spreads, butter, or marmalade. The name houska might also refer to another type of bread that is sweet, rich, and filled with raisins, candied fruit, and almonds, typically served for Christmas and Easter. It is more similar to challah or brioche and was originally named vánočka.