Lecso
Lecso Recipe - Vegetarian Austrian Dish with Green Peppers and Tomatoes
Introduction
Lecso is a traditional Hungarian dish made with peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a few simple seasonings. This flavorful and colorful dish is a popular choice for a quick and easy meal that is both delicious and nutritious.
History
Lecso has been a staple in Hungarian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern regions of Hungary, where peppers are abundant and widely used in cooking. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include different variations and ingredients, but the basic concept of sautéed peppers and onions remains the same.
Ingredients
- 300 g of green peppers
- 150 g of onions
- 30 g of oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 200 g of peeled, seeded tomatoes
- 1 cup of beef stock
- 1 tbsp of minced parsley
- salt and pepper
How to prepare
- In a hot oil, sauté sliced onions and sliced peppers. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed garlic.
- Add stock and let it simmer for another five minutes. Then, add coarsely cut tomatoes and continue to simmer.
- Season to taste and sprinkle with parsley.
Variations
- Add cooked sausage or chicken for a heartier meal.
- Stir in some cooked beans or lentils for added protein.
- Use different types of peppers for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to slice the peppers and onions evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Use a combination of green and red peppers for a more colorful dish.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- For a richer flavor, you can add smoked paprika or hot paprika to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lecso hot with crusty bread or over rice or pasta.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
Cooking Techniques
Sauté the peppers and onions until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Simmer the dish slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes.
- Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a vegetarian version.
Make Ahead Tips
Lecso can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. - Serve in individual bowls or on a platter for a family-style meal.
Pairing Recommendations
Lecso pairs well with grilled meats, sausages, or fish.
- Serve with a side salad or pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover lecso in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Calories per serving: 150
Carbohydrates
15g per serving
Fats
10g per serving
Proteins
3g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Lecso is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.
Alergens
Lecso is gluten-free and dairy-free, but may contain traces of nuts.
Summary
Lecso is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that is high in vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Lecso is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Lecso. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in Hungary. My aunt was a wonderful cook, and she had a knack for creating delicious meals out of simple ingredients. One day, as I watched her prepare dinner, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from her collection. She told me that it was a traditional Hungarian dish called Lecso, and that she had learned how to make it from her own mother.
As I watched her chop the colorful peppers and onions, and simmer them in a rich tomato sauce, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. My aunt generously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly copied it down in my notebook. Little did I know that this humble dish would become a staple in my own kitchen, and a beloved favorite among my family and friends.
Over the years, I have made my own adaptations to the recipe, adding different vegetables and spices to suit my taste. Each time I make Lecso, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen in Hungary, where the aroma of simmering peppers and onions filled the air, and I learned the magic of simple, flavorful cooking.
To make Lecso, you will need:
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet, and cook until they are slightly softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the Lecso hot, over a bed of rice or noodles. Enjoy!
I have shared this recipe with my own children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition of Lecso from generation to generation. It brings me so much joy to see them cooking in their own kitchens, creating memories and delicious meals just like I did with my aunt so many years ago.
I often think about the origins of this recipe, and how it has traveled through time and across borders to find its way into my own kitchen. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from my aunt and to continue the culinary traditions of my heritage.
As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Lecso, I am reminded of the simple pleasures of good food and good company. The flavors of the peppers and onions mingle together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
I hope that you will try making Lecso in your own kitchen, and that it will bring you as much joy and nostalgia as it has brought me over the years. May this recipe become a treasured part of your family's culinary tradition, just as it has become a cherished part of mine. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Austrian Recipes | Austrian Vegetarian | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Onion Recipes | Tomato Recipes |