Hungarian cuisine has a long and interesting history that dates to the time when Hungary was occupied by the Magyars. The Magyars were a nomadic tribe that settled in the Carpathian Basin, which is now modern-day Hungary, around 896 AD. The Magyars brought with them a unique cuisine that was influenced by their nomadic lifestyle and the foods they encountered in their travels.
One of the most important ingredients in Hungarian cuisine is paprika, which was introduced to Hungary by the Turks in the 16th century. Paprika quickly became a staple in Hungarian cuisine and is now used in many traditional dishes, including goulash and paprikash. Throughout Hungary's history, the country has been invaded and occupied by various empires, including the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the Soviet Union. Each of these occupations has left its mark on Hungarian cuisine, with influences from neighboring countries such as Austria, Slovakia, and Romania.
In the 19th century, Hungarian cuisine underwent a significant transformation, with the introduction of new ingredients and cooking techniques. This was largely due to the influence of French cuisine, which was popular among the aristocracy at the time. Hungarian chefs began incorporating French techniques into their cooking, and the resulting cuisine became known as "Magyar-French" cuisine.
In the 20th century, Hungary was hit hard by economic and political instability, which had a significant impact on the country's cuisine. Many traditional dishes were simplified and made with cheaper ingredients, and new dishes were created to make the most of what was available. If you are planning to visit Hungary or are just curious about Hungarian cuisine, here are some must-try dishes that you should add to your food list:
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Salty food
Goulash (gulyás)
Goulash, or gulyás in Hungarian, is Hungary's national dish and a beloved part of Hungarian cuisine. It is a hearty soup that is traditionally made with beef, vegetables, and spices, including paprika. Goulash has a long history in Hungary, dating back to the 9th century when the Magyars first settled in the Carpathian Basin. Goulash was originally a simple dish made with beef and onions, but over time, the recipe evolved to include more spices and vegetables. Today, there are many variations of goulash, but the basic ingredients remain the same. The most important ingredient is paprika, which gives the soup its distinctive flavor and red color. Other spices that are commonly used include caraway seeds, bay leaves, and thyme. It is typically served with bread or noodles, and a popular dish during the cold winter months. It is also a popular dish to serve at special occasions and festivals, such as the annual Goulash Festival held in Budapest.
Paprikás csirke
Paprikás csirke, or chicken paprikash in English, is another classic Hungarian dish that is beloved by many. Like goulash, paprikás csirke features paprika as a key ingredient, giving the dish its distinct reddish-orange color and slightly sweet, smoky flavor. To make paprikás csirke, chicken pieces (usually drumsticks and thighs) are first browned in a pot with onions and sometimes bacon or pork fat. Then, paprika, garlic, and other spices such as salt, pepper, and sometimes caraway seeds are added. The chicken is then simmered in a mixture of chicken broth and sour cream, which gives the dish a creamy, tangy sauce.
Paprikás csirke is typically served with egg noodles or dumplings, which soak up the delicious sauce. Some variations also include other vegetables, such as bell peppers or tomatoes, to add extra flavor and nutrition.
Halászlé
Halászlé, also known as fisherman's soup, is a popular and traditional Hungarian soup made with freshwater fish, vegetables, and spicy paprika. It originated in the Szeged region of Hungary, where fishermen would prepare the soup using the catch of the day from the nearby Tisza and Maros rivers. The traditional recipe for halászlé involves using a mix of fish, including carp, catfish, and perch, and simmering them with onions, garlic, and tomatoes in a paprika-infused broth. The soup is often seasoned with hot peppers, which give it a spicy kick, and served with bread or a side of sour cream.
While it may seem like a simple soup, halászlé requires a great deal of skill and patience to prepare. The fish must be cleaned and prepared carefully, and the broth must be simmered slowly to ensure that the flavors are well-developed and the fish is cooked to perfection.
Lángos
Lángos is a popular Hungarian street food that has become a beloved part of Hungarian cuisine. It is a type of deep-fried dough that is similar to a flatbread or pizza crust, topped with various savory or sweet toppings. Lángos can be served with a variety of toppings, such as garlic butter, sour cream, grated cheese, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions. It can also be served with sweet toppings, such as Nutella, jam, or powdered sugar. Lángos is a versatile and delicious food that can be enjoyed any time of the day. It is commonly sold at street food stalls, festivals, and markets throughout Hungary, and is a popular late-night snack for partygoers.
Sweet food
Kürtőskalács
Kürtőskalács, also known as chimney cake, is a traditional Hungarian pastry that has become popular throughout Eastern Europe and beyond. It is a sweet, yeasted dough that is rolled out and wrapped around a wooden cylinder, then cooked over an open flame until golden brown. Once cooked, the dough is coated in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, giving it a sweet and spicy flavor. The pastry can also be coated in other toppings, such as chopped nuts or coconut flakes, for added texture and flavor.
Kürtőskalács is a popular dessert or snack throughout Hungary and can be found at street food stalls, markets, and festivals. It is often served warm and freshly cooked, making it a comforting and indulgent treat on cold days.
Töltött káposzta
Töltött káposzta, also known as stuffed cabbage, is a hearty and flavorful dish that is a staple of Hungarian cuisine. It is made by rolling a mixture of ground pork and rice in cabbage leaves, which are then simmered in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful. The stuffed cabbage rolls are placed in a pot and covered with a tomato-based sauce, which is flavored with more paprika, garlic, and other herbs and spices. The dish is then simmered for several hours until the cabbage leaves are tender and the flavors have melded together. Töltött káposzta is a hearty and comforting dish that is often served during the winter months or on special occasions such as holidays and family gatherings. It is often served with a side of sour cream and crusty bread, and pairs well with a hearty red wine.
Dobos torte
Dobos torte, also known as Dobos cake, is a classic Hungarian dessert that was invented in the late 1800s by József Dobos, a Hungarian baker. It is a multi-layered cake that is comprised of thin sponge cake layers that are separated by rich chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel layer. Traditionally, Dobos torte is decorated with a pattern on top made from extra caramel, giving it a distinctive and elegant appearance. The cake is often served as a special occasion dessert, such as birthdays or weddings.
Somlói galuska
Somlói galuska is a classic Hungarian dessert that is named after the Somló Hill, which is located in western Hungary. It is a decadent dessert that consists of several layers of sponge cake, chocolate sauce, rum-soaked raisins, and whipped cream. The dessert is served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sponge cake to absorb the chocolate sauce and rum. The result is a rich and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a treat after a hearty Hungarian meal.
DRINKS
Unicum
Unicum is a bitter herbal liqueur that is made in Hungary. It is made from a secret blend of over 40 herbs and spices, and has a distinctively bitter flavor that is both strong and complex. Unicum is typically consumed as an aperitif or digestif, and is often served neat or on the rocks. It can also be used in cocktails and mixed drinks, such as the "Unicum and Tonic", which is made by mixing Unicum with tonic water and a slice of lime.
TOKAJI
Tokaji, also known as Tokay, is a sweet white wine that is made in the Tokaj region of Hungary. It is considered one of the world's great dessert wines and is known for its unique flavor and aroma. Tokaji wine comes in a range of styles, from dry to sweet, with the sweetest wines being the most famous. The sweetest Tokaji wines are labeled with a number between 3 and 6, with 6 being the sweetest. In addition to its sweetness, Tokaji wine is also known for its complex flavors and aromas, which can include notes of honey, apricot, citrus, and vanilla. It is often served as a dessert wine, paired with rich desserts or cheese.
Palinka
Pálinka is a traditional fruit brandy that is widely consumed in Hungary and is considered a part of the country's cultural heritage. It is made by fermenting and distilling various fruits, including plums, apricots, apples, and pears. Pálinka is typically consumed as a digestif, served at room temperature in small glasses. It has a strong, fruity flavor and a high alcohol content, making it a popular drink for special occasions and celebrations.
These are just a few of the traditional dishes that you can try when you visit Szeged. Make sure to explore the local markets and restaurants to discover even more delicious Hungarian cuisine.
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