Heat the oil or lard in a large skillet or heavy pot over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook for 5–7 minutes, until soft and lightly golden.
2. Add the Paprika
Remove the pan from the heat briefly.
Stir in the Hungarian paprika and optional hot paprika.
Adding the paprika away from direct heat helps prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
3. Add the Peppers
Add the sliced peppers and garlic.
Cook for approximately 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers begin to soften.
4. Add the Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped tomatoes.
Season with salt, pepper, and a small amount of sugar if the tomatoes are particularly acidic.
If using sausage, add the sliced sausage at this stage.
5. Simmer
Cover partially and simmer over medium-low heat for approximately 20–30 minutes.
The vegetables should become tender while still retaining some texture, and the tomatoes should create a rich, flavorful sauce.
6. Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the lecsó and adjust the salt and paprika as needed.
For a spicier version, add a little hot Hungarian paprika or a fresh chili pepper.
How to Serve Hungarian Lecsó
Lecsó is wonderfully versatile.
Serve it with:
Crusty fresh bread
Hungarian sausage
Fried or poached eggs
Rice
Potatoes
Grilled meats
Sour cream
A spoonful of sour cream can add a delicious creamy contrast to the smoky paprika and sweet peppers.
Tips for Perfect Lecsó
Use ripe tomatoes. They provide the best natural sweetness and make a flavorful sauce.
Choose flavorful peppers. Hungarian wax peppers are especially traditional, but mild bell peppers work well too.
Don’t burn the paprika. Always add it after briefly taking the pan off the heat.
Cook gently. Slow simmering allows the peppers and tomatoes to develop a richer flavor.
Don’t overcook the vegetables. Traditional lecsó should be tender but not completely mushy.
Recipe Summary
Cuisine: Hungarian 🇭🇺 Course: Main Dish / Side Dish Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 35–40 minutes Total Time: About 50–55 minutes Servings: 4–6
Final Thoughts
Hungarian Lecsó is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying dish. Sweet peppers, juicy tomatoes, onions, and Hungarian paprika simmer together into a rich and comforting stew.
Enjoy it with crusty bread for a simple vegetarian meal, or add sausage and eggs for a heartier traditional Hungarian dinner. 🇭🇺❤️
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