Potatoes Paprikash

Potatoes Paprikash Recipe - A Vegetarian Dish from Hungary

Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Potatoes Paprikash is a delicious and comforting dish that originated in Hungary. This hearty recipe features tender potatoes cooked in a flavorful paprika-infused sauce, making it the perfect meal for a cozy night in.

History

Potatoes Paprikash has its roots in Hungarian cuisine, where paprika is a staple spice. The dish is a variation of the traditional Hungarian Paprikash, which is typically made with chicken or pork. Potatoes were added to create a vegetarian version of this classic dish, making it a popular choice for those looking for a meat-free option.

Ingredients

vegetable oil
peeled and halved potatoes
1 large onion
1 or 2 cloves of chopped garlic
black pepper
paprika
thyme
chili pepper flakes or equivalent
0.25 can of tomatoes or equivalent
salt
garlic powder

How to prepare

Place a few tablespoons of oil in a Dutch oven or large pan with a tightly fitting lid.
Heat the oil and add the potatoes. Fry over medium heat, turning occasionally to brown evenly.
Add the onion and fry until softened.
Add the garlic, being careful not to overcook it.
Sprinkle generously with paprika.
Add a small amount of thyme.
Season with salt, pepper, pepper flakes, and a dash of garlic powder.
Pour in some water to halt the frying process.
Include tomatoes or tomato sauce.
Pour in additional water, keeping in mind that it will evaporate during cooking, resulting in a rich sauce.
Cover the pan with the lid, ensuring a tight seal.
Cook slowly on the stovetop for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add a little water as needed to maintain the desired sauce consistency.

Variations

Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a good quality paprika for the best flavor.

- Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.

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

- Stir the potatoes occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking to the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Potatoes Paprikash with a side of crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the potatoes allows them to absorb the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.

- Substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomatoes for a fresher taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Potatoes Paprikash 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 Potatoes Paprikash in a decorative serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Potatoes Paprikash with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Each serving of Potatoes Paprikash contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

- Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.

- The tomatoes in this recipe also contribute to the carbohydrate content.

Fats

- The vegetable oil used for cooking adds healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

- This vegetarian dish is low in protein, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their meat consumption.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins.

- Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and lycopene.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Potatoes Paprikash is a nutritious and satisfying dish that is low in protein and high in carbohydrates. It is a great option for vegetarians and those looking for a comforting meal.

Summary

Potatoes Paprikash is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This vegetarian recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a satisfying meal. Enjoy this hearty dish with your favorite side for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

...

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Potatoes Paprikash. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window as I stood at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling paprika-infused sauce. The aroma that wafted through the air was intoxicating, and I knew right then and there that this dish would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

I learned this recipe from a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Kovač, who hailed from Hungary. She was a master in the kitchen, able to whip up the most delicious dishes with ease and grace. I had always admired her culinary skills and had begged her to teach me some of her secrets. And on that fateful day, she finally relented and invited me over to her home to learn how to make Potatoes Paprikash.

Mrs. Kovač greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, ushering me into her cozy kitchen. She handed me a glass of chilled pálinka, a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy, and we sat down at her kitchen table as she began to explain the recipe.

"First, you must start with the best quality potatoes," she said, her words flowing like music as she spoke. "They should be waxy and firm, able to hold their shape when cooked. And the paprika – ah, the paprika is the key to this dish. It must be sweet Hungarian paprika, vibrant in color and rich in flavor."

Mrs. Kovač guided me through each step of the recipe, demonstrating how to sauté onions until golden brown, then adding the paprika to release its earthy aroma. She then showed me how to layer the sliced potatoes in the pot, pouring the fragrant sauce over them and letting them simmer until tender and infused with flavor.

As the Potatoes Paprikash cooked, Mrs. Kovač regaled me with stories of her childhood in Hungary, of lazy afternoons spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching her prepare traditional dishes with love and care. Her eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she spoke, and I could see the passion she had for her heritage and its culinary traditions.

Finally, the Potatoes Paprikash was ready, the potatoes soft and luscious, the sauce thick and velvety. Mrs. Kovač served us each a steaming bowlful, topping it off with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The first bite was like a taste of heaven – creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious.

As I savored each mouthful, I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen. I thanked Mrs. Kovač profusely for sharing her knowledge with me, for opening up her heart and her home to teach me the art of Potatoes Paprikash.

And from that day forward, I have made this dish countless times, always remembering the warmth and generosity of Mrs. Kovač as I stir the pot and watch the sauce bubble and simmer. Each time I take a bite, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in her kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of paprika and memories of a dear friend.

So if you ever find yourself craving a taste of Hungary, look no further than my recipe for Potatoes Paprikash. It is a dish that will warm your soul and fill your belly with comfort and joy, just as it has done for me all these years. And as you savor each bite, remember the story of how I learned to make it, and the friend who shared her culinary secrets with me.