Paprikas

Paprikas Recipe from Serbia - Delicious Tomato and Pepperoni Dish

Region / culture: Serbia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Paprikas is a traditional Hungarian dish that is known for its rich and flavorful sauce. This hearty stew is typically made with a combination of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various meats such as pepperoni and hot dogs. The key ingredient that gives this dish its distinct flavor is Hungarian paprika, which adds a smoky and slightly sweet taste to the dish.

History

Paprikas has its origins in Hungary, where it is considered a staple dish in Hungarian cuisine. The dish is believed to have been influenced by Turkish and Balkan cuisines, which also use paprika as a key ingredient in many of their dishes. Paprikas has been enjoyed by generations of Hungarians and has become a beloved comfort food in many households.

Ingredients

1 x 16 oz (454 g) can of recipe cut tomatoes
1 x 8 oz (227 g) can of tomato sauce
1 x 5" stick of pepperoni, sliced
4 Kosher hot dogs, sliced
1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
0.5 white onion, sliced
2 cups of water
0.5 tsp of hungarian paprika
1 dash of cayenne pepper
1.5 tsp of chili powder

How to prepare

Add all ingredients to an 8 qt stockpot.
Stir and bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Variations

Substitute chicken or beef for the hot dogs for a different flavor.
Add additional vegetables such as mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrients.
Use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use Hungarian paprika for an authentic flavor in this dish.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- For a thicker sauce, simmer the dish uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

- Serve paprikas over cooked egg noodles or rice for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve paprikas over cooked egg noodles or rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering: Paprikas is typically simmered on low heat for an extended period of time to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Hungarian paprika, you can use regular paprika or smoked paprika as a substitute.

- Any type of sausage can be used in place of the hot dogs.

Make Ahead Tips

Paprikas can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve paprikas in a large serving bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Paprikas pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or beer complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover paprikas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 7g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

- Vitamin C: 60%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Paprikas is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and does not contain any common allergens.

Summary

Paprikas is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich and flavorful sauce, this Hungarian stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this hearty meal with your family and friends for a satisfying and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a cold and rainy day, and my dear friend Maria invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I could smell the rich aromas of paprika and onions wafting through the air. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a steaming bowl of Paprikas in hand.

I had never heard of Paprikas before, but as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it. The tender pieces of chicken, the creamy sauce, the hint of smokiness from the paprika - it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

Maria noticed my enthusiasm and offered to teach me her family recipe. She explained that Paprikas is a traditional Hungarian dish that is typically made with chicken, onions, paprika, sour cream, and a few other simple ingredients. She walked me through each step of the recipe, showing me how to brown the chicken, sauté the onions, and simmer everything together in a rich and velvety sauce.

I was mesmerized by Maria's skill and passion for cooking. She shared stories of how she learned to make Paprikas from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. As we cooked together, I felt a deep connection to the traditions and history behind this beloved dish.

After several hours of cooking and simmering, Maria and I sat down to enjoy our labor of love. The Paprikas was even more delicious than I remembered, and I savored each bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

From that day on, Paprikas became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, sharing the recipe and the stories behind it with anyone who would listen. Over the years, I have tweaked and perfected the recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different variations.

I have collected Paprikas recipes from various sources - cookbooks, cooking shows, and even online forums. Each version brings its own unique twist to the classic dish, but I always come back to Maria's original recipe as my favorite.

As I grew older and my passion for cooking grew stronger, I began to seek out other traditional Hungarian recipes to add to my repertoire. I traveled to Hungary, attended cooking classes, and learned from local chefs and home cooks. I discovered the rich culinary history of the country, with its hearty stews, savory dumplings, and sweet pastries.

One of my favorite memories is of a small village in the Hungarian countryside, where I stumbled upon a bustling farmers market. The air was filled with the tantalizing scents of smoked sausages, fresh bread, and spicy goulash. I spent hours wandering through the stalls, tasting samples, and chatting with the vendors.

I met an elderly woman who sold jars of homemade paprika paste, made from peppers grown in her own garden. She shared her family recipe for Paprikas with me, emphasizing the importance of using high-quality paprika to achieve the best flavor. I bought a jar of her paste and vowed to incorporate it into my own version of the dish.

Back home, I experimented with different types of paprika, from mild and sweet to hot and smoky. I discovered that each variety brought its own unique character to the dish, enhancing the flavors and adding depth to the sauce.

I also learned the importance of patience and attention to detail when making Paprikas. It is a labor of love that requires time, care, and dedication. From browning the chicken just right to stirring the sauce until it thickens to perfection, every step is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

As I look back on my journey with Paprikas, I am filled with gratitude for the friends, family, and strangers who have shared their recipes and stories with me. Each dish is a piece of history, a connection to the past, a celebration of tradition and culture.

And so, I continue to cook and share my beloved Paprikas with those I love, passing down the recipe and the memories to future generations. It is a dish that transcends time and borders, bringing people together around the table in a shared appreciation of good food and good company.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Paprikas, I am reminded of the warmth and comfort it brings, the stories and adventures it has sparked, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with those I hold dear. And so, I raise my spoon in gratitude and savor each bite, knowing that this humble dish holds a special place in my heart and in my kitchen forevermore.