"Kulajda" Dill and mushroom soup with poached egg

Czech classic - gf version

In the gentle hush of early morning, with a wicker basket in hand and crisp forest air on your face, we wander into the woods—just like our grandparents did—to pick mushrooms for our Kulajda. Mushroom hunting, or "houbaření," is a beloved Czech tradition passed down from generation to generation, a ritual as much about connection to nature and family as it is about food. Deep in the dappled shade of old beeches and pines, we gather porcini, chanterelles, or other forest gems—each one carrying the earthy scent of the woods and the promise of a comforting dinner. And when we return home, the harvested mushrooms become the heart of our creamy, tangy soup—Kulajda—its flavors rooted in that walk through the forest, with potatoes, sour cream, dill, and the magic of a perfectly poached egg nestled on top.

• gluten and diary free version included