Hemendex and Its Variations You Should Try
Why Hemendex is Still a Star of Czech Breakfasts
When you say "traditional Czech breakfast," most people think of a roll with butter and jam, scrambled eggs, or specifically hemendex. This dish, whose name is a Czech version of the English "ham and eggs," has found a firm place on Czech tables for decades and remains a staple of both home kitchens and hotel buffets.
It's no wonder—hemendex is simple, quick, nutritious, and above all, delicious. Although its preparation seems trivial, there are many ways to make it truly delightful—whether you use ham, bacon, or even seasonal vegetables. In this article, we'll explore how hemendex is made, the most popular variations, and why it's worth returning to the roots of breakfast classics.
How to Make Hemendex? Basics are Simple, Details Make the Difference
In its most basic form, hemendex consists of a few simple ingredients: eggs, ham, and cooking fat. But as with simple recipes, details decide the final result. The eggs should be fresh, preferably free-range, the ham of high quality and not too salty—ideally, sliced boiled ham with a higher meat content. Just a drop of butter or a tablespoon of clarified ghee is enough to add a gentle nutty flavor to the dish.
The preparation looks something like this:
- First, briefly fry the ham in a pan—just a few seconds to release its aroma.
- Then crack the eggs over the ham. The amount depends on your hunger and the size of the pan—typically two to three eggs are prepared.
- Fry on low heat until the whites set, but the yolk remains runny.
- Season with freshly ground pepper; salt is often unnecessary as the ham is usually salty enough.
This simple version is the foundation on which you can build. The hemendex recipe is adapted by everyone according to their taste—some add cheese, others go for herbs or even chili. The key is not to be afraid to experiment while maintaining what makes hemendex what it is: the harmony between eggs and ham.
Variations Worth Trying
Ham hemendex is a classic, but how about changing the ingredients a bit to create a healthier or more modern version? In recent years, hemendex with vegetables has become a popular choice—cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or sautéed peppers add color and vitamins. A vegetarian version can be made with tofu or smoked tempeh instead of ham, which is appreciated by those trying to reduce meat consumption.
Another option is baked hemendex—on a crispy toast in the oven with cheese on top. This version is closer to brunch specialties and is great for a weekend breakfast when there's a bit more time.
A Mediterranean approach offers an interesting twist—hemendex with jamón serrano, olives, and fresh basil brings a whole new dimension. And if you're craving a slightly more luxurious experience, try a version with truffle oil or add poached eggs on a bed of sautéed mushrooms and onions.
Hemendex—A Meal That Has Survived Generations
Hemendex holds a special place in Czech culture. It's not just a dish but a memory of school cafeterias, cottage vacations, or holidays at grandma's. It's in these contexts that a relationship with food often forms, one that lasts a lifetime. It's not uncommon for people to recall "the best hemendex" they had as children and try to replicate it at home.
According to a survey by the STEM/MARK agency in 2022, hemendex is among the most common hot breakfasts in Czech households, right after scrambled eggs and sausages. Its popularity hasn't waned even in the era of growing interest in healthy eating—thanks to its adaptability to different ingredients, everyone can prepare a version that suits their lifestyle.
Interestingly, while abroad hemendex is often associated with brunches or hotel breakfasts, in the Czech Republic, it's a dish people commonly make even on weekdays before heading to work. Thanks to its quick preparation (under ten minutes) and high satiety, it's an ideal choice for anyone seeking a quick and nutritious breakfast without unnecessary sugar.
A Simple Trick for Perfect Hemendex
Cook and food stylist Andrea Tögelová, who focuses on healthy cooking, recommends one simple trick: "Let the ham caramelize slightly before adding the eggs. This enhances the flavor of the dish and gives it a slightly smoky note." She also advises using quality butter or clarified fat, as regular oil can be too heavy and overpower the taste of the eggs.
Hemendex as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle
You might wonder—isn't it just fried food? Can it really be part of a healthy diet? The answer is yes, if you monitor the quality of the ingredients and the method of preparation. Eggs are a rich source of protein, vitamin D, B12, and choline, which is significant for brain health. Eating them in the morning also helps maintain a feeling of fullness for longer, which can help reduce unnecessary snacking.
Try our natural products
Ham can easily be replaced with quality chicken, a plant-based product, or even a legume spread for a vegetarian version. It's important to ensure the dish isn't overly salted and isn't fried in burnt fat. Add a bit of fresh vegetables or whole-grain bread—and suddenly, you have a breakfast that satisfies, pleases, and doesn't burden you.
Moreover, hemendex has one great advantage: it can be prepared to suit the whole family, from children to seniors. Everyone can choose their own accompaniment—some like bread, others a piece of avocado or arugula, and some indulge in a heap of parmesan. That's its magic.
A Story from Life
One of the favorite stories circulating among friends is related to hemendex. A young couple went on a weekend getaway to their cottage without much preparation. Upon arrival, they found they only had a few eggs, some leftover ham, and butter in the fridge. From an initially unpromising situation, a breakfast emerged that they still remember—crispy hemendex in an iron pan, served with vegetables from their garden. It was said to be the best breakfast "from nothing" and proof that even simple food can be an experience.
In today's fast-paced world, such meals are a small return to calm and comfort. Perhaps that's why hemendex has never gone out of style—it offers more than just a hot meal. It's a symbol of home, tradition, and uncomplicated enjoyment. And that's something that always counts.
