When it comes to hearty, comforting cuisine, Hungary is a nation that knows how to satisfy. Rich in tradition and flavor, Hungarian cooking has been shaped by centuries of cultural influences from neighboring countries, as well as its own unique history. From tender paprika-spiced chicken dishes to rich beef stews simmered with red wine, the flavors of Hungary are a true delight.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 authentic Hungarian recipes that showcase the country’s incredible gastronomic heritage. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort foods or adventurous eaters looking to try something new, there’s something here for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the bold flavors and warm hospitality of Hungary.
Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings
This traditional Hungarian dish is a comforting and flavorful stew made with chicken, paprika, and tender dumplings. Serve hot with crusty bread or egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sweet paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 6-8 dumpling dough balls (see below)
Dumpling Dough:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, and chicken. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Gradually add flour, broth, and water, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
4. Add dumpling dough balls and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Goulash Soup with Fresh Herbs
Rich and flavorful, this goulash soup is a perfect comfort food for any time of the year. The addition of fresh herbs gives it a bright and refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup chopped tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef; cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
4. Add the beef broth, chopped tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and dill, if using.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lángos with Garlic and Sour Cream
A classic Hungarian street food, lángos is a crispy, deep-fried flatbread topped with savory flavors. This recipe adds a rich twist by incorporating roasted garlic and a dollop of sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, roasted (see note)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry lángos for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Spread roasted garlic on top of each lángos. Top with softened butter, then sour cream.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: Roast garlic by preheating oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft and caramelized. Squeeze out cloves and use as directed.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce
This hearty dish is a classic Eastern European recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The combination of tender cabbage, flavorful filling, and rich tomato sauce will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water for 5 minutes; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until the meat is browned.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each cabbage leaf with the meat mixture and roll up tightly.
6. Place rolled cabbage in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. In a separate bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water; pour over the cabbage rolls.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fisherman’s Soup with River Fish
A hearty and flavorful soup that celebrates the freshness of river fish, perfect for a cozy dinner after a day on the water.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb river fish (such as catfish or carp), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini)
– 4 cups water
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fish pieces, mixed vegetables, water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hungarian Lecsó with Sausage
Lecsó is a hearty Hungarian stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This recipe combines tender sausage, flavorful vegetables, and rich paprika broth to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or kolbász), sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef Stew with Red Wine and Carrots
This hearty beef stew is a perfect comfort food dish, slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich red wine broth with the sweetness of carrots.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or shank, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and carrots; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Transylvanian Layered Cabbage
A hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Transylvanian Layered Cabbage is a staple of Romanian cuisine. Thinly sliced cabbage and savory ground pork come together in a rich, comforting casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced cabbage in salted water for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Assemble the casserole by layering the cooked cabbage, pork mixture, and vegetable oil in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Potato Casserole with Sausage
This rich and satisfying casserole combines the flavors of Hungarian sausage, potatoes, and cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 lb Hungarian sausage (such as kolbász or székelygulyás), casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of sausage mixture, followed by a layer of potatoes, then sprinkle with cheese and paprika.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pörkölt with Spicy Hungarian Peppers
Savor the bold flavors of Hungary with this spicy twist on traditional pork and pepper stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 4-6 spicy Hungarian peppers (such as Szegedi or Paprika), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onions. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the peppers, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Return the pork to the skillet and stir to coat with the spicy pepper mixture.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hungarian Cheese Spread with Fresh Bread
This classic Hungarian spread is a staple in many households, perfect for snacking or as an accompaniment to your favorite bread. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) softened cream cheese
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Hungarian cheese (such as Gouda or Edam)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, Hungarian cheese, and butter until smooth.
2. Add the paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve on freshly baked or toasted bread.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Sweet Hungarian Pancakes with Walnuts
Sweet Hungarian Pancakes with Walnuts Recipe
These sweet and indulgent pancakes are a classic Hungarian treat, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture to these fluffy and flavorful treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 8-10 pancakes
Hungarian Sour Cherry Soup Chilled
A refreshing summer soup from Hungary, this chilled sour cherry soup is a perfect way to beat the heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sour cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sour cherries, water, sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cherries are soft.
3. Strain the soup through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, stir in heavy cream until well combined.
7. Ladle into chilled bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Poppy Seed Roll with Vanilla Glaze
This classic dessert combines the warmth of a poppy seed roll with the sweetness of a vanilla glaze, making it perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delightful treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– Vanilla glaze (recipe below)
Poppy Seed Roll:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add melted butter, egg, and poppy seeds. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down dough and shape into a log. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Vanilla Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1. Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.
2. Drizzle glaze over cooled poppy seed roll.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Hungarian Stuffed Peppers with Rice
This classic Hungarian dish is a flavorful and hearty meal that combines tender peppers with a savory rice filling, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 lb ground pork, beef, or a combination of the two
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with vegetable oil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake) with Cinnamon Sugar
Experience the sweet and crispy delight of Hungarian chimney cakes, freshly baked to perfection. This simple recipe yields a delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat a chimney cake machine or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin rope.
7. Cook the ropes in the preheated machine or oil for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Enjoy your freshly baked Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake) with Cinnamon Sugar!
Hungarian Mushroom Soup with Dill
This hearty soup is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic, simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with fresh dill. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Ladle soup into bowls and top each serving with chopped fresh dill.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tokaji Wine-Infused Duck Legs
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors with this easy-to-make dish, where tender duck legs are infused with the rich flavors of Tokaji wine.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck legs
– 1 cup Tokaji wine
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Tokaji wine, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place duck legs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the marinade, stirring to combine.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Remove duck legs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hungarian Walnut Torte with Coffee Cream
Experience the rich flavors of Hungary with this classic walnut torte, paired with a decadent coffee cream. This moist and nutty dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) ground walnuts
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the coffee cream: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground walnuts, sugar, and softened butter. Beat until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow torte to cool completely before serving with coffee cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rakott Krumpli (Layered Potatoes) with Sausage
A hearty Hungarian dish that combines the flavors of sautéed sausage, onions, and potatoes in a delicious layered casserole.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 Hungarian sausages (or similar), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Arrange a layer of potatoes in the prepared dish. Top with a layer of the onion-sausage mixture, then sprinkle with paprika. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of Hungary with these 20 authentic and mouthwatering recipes! From hearty stews like Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings and Beef Stew with Red Wine and Carrots, to soups like Goulash Soup with Fresh Herbs and Fisherman’s Soup with River Fish. You’ll also find delicious twists on traditional dishes like L\u00e1ngos with Garlic and Sour Cream, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce, and Hungarian Potato Casserole with Sausage. Treat yourself to sweet treats like Sweet Hungarian Pancakes with Walnuts and Poppy Seed Roll with Vanilla Glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to delight!
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