Lecsó: The Ultimate Hungarian Vegetable Stew Recipe
Lecsó recipe
Today on the Takrecipe website, we bring you one of Hungary’s most beloved comfort foods: Lecsó. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in Hungarian households, offering a perfect balance of sweetness from the peppers and acidity from the tomatoes. It is often compared to the French ratatouille but has its own unique taste, thanks to the generous use of Hungarian paprika. Whether eaten alone, with sausages, or served over rice, this dish is sure to impress with its rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients (Serves 4 People)
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 1 teaspoon Hungarian sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balancing acidity)
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth (optional)
- 2 eggs (optional, for a richer version)
- 200g smoked sausage (optional, for a meatier version)
Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. Chop the tomatoes into small cubes and finely slice the onion. Mince the garlic for extra flavor. If using sausages, slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Heat the vegetable oil or lard in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Bell Peppers:
Increase the heat slightly and add the sliced bell peppers to the pan. Stir occasionally, letting them cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
Incorporate the Tomatoes and Paprika:
Add the chopped tomatoes and Hungarian sweet paprika to the pan. Stir well to coat all the vegetables with the seasoning. If needed, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season the Dish:
Add salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using) to balance the flavors. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Optional Additions:
If you prefer a richer version, crack two eggs into the pan and stir gently, allowing them to cook through. If you want a meaty version, add sliced smoked sausages at this stage and let them cook for a few minutes until heated through.
Serve and Enjoy:
Lecsó is best enjoyed warm, served with fresh crusty bread, rice, or even as a side dish with grilled meats.
Tips:
Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes
🟢The natural sweetness and acidity of fresh tomatoes enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Avoid using canned tomatoes unless necessary.
Choose High-Quality Paprika
🟢Hungarian sweet paprika gives the dish its signature flavor. Try to use authentic Hungarian paprika for the best taste.
Let it Rest Before Serving
🟢Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors develop further, making it even more delicious.