When it comes to spicy food, many people might think of international cuisines like Korean or Szechuan Chinese. But Hungary has its own brand of fiery flavors, thanks to a staple ingredient called paprika. This sweet and smoky spice is used in countless traditional Hungarian recipes, adding depth and heat to everything from hearty stews to crispy fried bread.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 deliciously traditional Hungarian recipes that showcase the best of this spicy cuisine. From comforting soups to satisfying main courses, each dish is a reflection of Hungary’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Stay tuned for our first recipe, [insert recipe name], which combines tender beef with aromatic paprika and creamy sour cream.
Hungarian Goulash
Rich and hearty, Hungarian goulash is a classic dish that warms the soul. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Paprikash
Paprikash is a hearty and flavorful Hungarian stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich paprika-spiced broth, and a hint of sour cream to create a comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp sweet paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
5. Stir in the sour cream. Serve hot over egg noodles or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lángos (Hungarian Fried Bread)
A classic Hungarian street food, Lángos are crispy fried flatbreads smothered in garlic, cheese, and your choice of toppings. This simple recipe brings the flavors of Budapest to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic, minced (to taste)
– Grated cheese (such as Emmental or Cheddar)
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., sour cream, chopped fresh herbs, paprika)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 10 inches in diameter).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry each flatbread for 30 seconds on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Sprinkle minced garlic and grated cheese evenly over the Lángos.
8. Add your preferred toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on frying time)
Halászlé (Fisherman’s Soup)
A hearty and flavorful Hungarian soup that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of mixed fish pieces (such as cod, hake, or carp)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add fish pieces and cook until they start to flake apart.
3. Add bell pepper and tomatoes; stir well.
4. Pour in water and add paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Töltött Káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
A classic Hungarian dish that combines the flavors of cabbage, rice, and meat in a deliciously simple package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage head and blanch it in boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Remove the cabbage from the pot and let it cool slightly.
5. Cut out the tough center stem of the cabbage head, then cut it into 6-8 wedges.
6. Place about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage wedge, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Roll up each wedge tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
8. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake)
A traditional Hungarian sweet treat, Kürtőskalács is a crispy and airy chimney-shaped pastry drizzled with honey and sprinkled with walnuts. This recipe yields 6-8 pieces of this delicious cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Chopped walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and honey until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a chimney-shaped mold or a tall, narrow loaf pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before drizzling with honey and sprinkling with walnuts.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lecsó (Hungarian Pepper and Tomato Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from Hungary, Lecsó is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its sweet and smoky flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers and stir gently.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Rakott Krumpli (Layered Potato Casserole)
This traditional Hungarian dish is a hearty and comforting casserole made with layers of potatoes, cheese, and bacon. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 large potatoes
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then slice into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together grated cheese and paprika.
5. Assemble the casserole by layering potatoes, cooked bacon mixture, and cheese mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pörkölt (Hungarian Beef Stew)
Savor the rich flavors of Hungary with this hearty beef stew, slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
4. Add browned beef, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Meggyes Lepény (Sour Cherry Cake)
This traditional Hungarian dessert is a delightful combination of sweet and sour flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cherries, pitted
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Fold in pitted sour cherries.
5. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Paprikás Csirke (Paprika Chicken)
A classic Hungarian dish, Paprikás Csirke is a hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken, rich paprika sauce, and soft noodles come together in this comforting recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup Hungarian sour cream (or regular sour cream)
– 1 cup cooked egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken, cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add chicken back to the pot, stir to coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Stir in sour cream. Serve hot over egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Túrós Csusza (Noodles with Cottage Cheese)
A classic Hungarian dish that’s easy to make and delicious to eat! Túrós Csusza is a comforting combination of cooked noodles, cottage cheese, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as egg noodles or macaroni)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the cottage cheese and stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Add the salt, pepper, and paprika to the cottage cheese mixture and stir well.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the cottage cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Szilvás Gombóc (Plum Dumplings)
Szilvás Gombóc (Plum Dumplings) Recipe
This traditional Hungarian dessert is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup plum jam (or other sweet spread)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and plum jam until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each dumpling.
9. Brush tops with melted butter.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bableves (Hungarian Bean Soup)
This hearty soup is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made with tender beans, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked and drained beans, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and potato.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
3. Add caraway seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Káposztás Tészta (Cabbage and Noodles)
This hearty stew is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, combining tender cabbage, savory noodles, and flavorful spices. Perfect for a chilly evening, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 8 oz Hungarian noodles (or egg noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cabbage, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes)
Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes) Recipe
Palacsinta, a classic Hungarian dessert, is a thin crepe filled with sweet or savory fillings. This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make this beloved treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– Filling of your choice (e.g. sweet or savory fillings)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and milk until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour in about 1/4 cup of batter and tilt the pan to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Loosen the crepe with a spatula and flip it onto a plate.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, until you have enough crepes for your desired filling.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes for 8-10 crepes
Kolbász (Hungarian Sausage)
Traditional Hungarian sausage recipe with a rich flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork shoulder, finely ground
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 0.5 tsp paprika
– 20ml white wine vinegar
– 10g coriander seeds
– Casings for stuffing (natural or synthetic)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, caraway seeds, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add white wine vinegar and coriander seeds to the mixture; mix until just combined.
4. Stuff the mixture into casings, making sure not to overfill.
5. Twist the filled casings into individual sausages.
6. Cook Kolbász by boiling in salted water for 10-15 minutes or pan-frying with a small amount of oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (boiling) / 3-4 minutes per side (pan-frying)
Kifli (Hungarian Crescent Rolls)
These flaky, buttery pastries are a staple of Hungarian baking. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle rolling, you’ll be enjoying these tender treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, and warm water. Let mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow yeast to activate.
2. Add salt and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze (optional).
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors and rich traditions of Hungarian cuisine with these 18 spicy recipes. From hearty stews like Paprikás Csirke (Paprika Chicken) and Pörkölt (Hungarian Beef Stew), to delicious breads like Lángos (Hungarian Fried Bread) and Kifli (Hungarian Crescent Rolls), there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at classic dishes like Gulyásleves (Hungarian Goulash) or Töltött Káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls), or indulge in sweet treats like Meggyes Lepény (Sour Cherry Cake). Each recipe is a window into the country’s rich cultural heritage, and the perfect way to spice up your cooking routine.
