Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is full of vibrant, natural flavors and requires only a handful of ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and highly versatile. The sweet peppers, juicy tomatoes, and smoky paprika create a deeply satisfying dish that works for any meal of the day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bell peppers
ripe tomatoes
onion
olive oil or lard
garlic
sweet paprika
salt
black pepper
Directions
Slice the onions and peppers into thin strips and chop the tomatoes.
Heat olive oil or lard in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the onions and cook until softened and slightly golden.
Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the sliced peppers and cook for several minutes until they begin to soften.
Sprinkle in the paprika and stir quickly to coat the vegetables without burning it.
Add the chopped tomatoes and mix well.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
You can add sausage or smoked meat for a heartier version. Some variations include eggs stirred in at the end for added richness. A pinch of hot paprika or chili can be added for heat, while a bit of rice can make it more filling.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through.
Lecso can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may soften slightly after thawing.
FAQs
What type of peppers should I use?
Hungarian wax peppers are traditional, but bell peppers work well.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply use oil instead of lard and avoid adding meat.
Is Lecso spicy?
Traditional Lecso is mild, but you can add spice if desired.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used if fresh are not available.
What can I serve with Lecso?
It pairs well with bread, rice, or eggs.
Can I add meat?
Yes, sausage or bacon are popular additions.
How thick should the stew be?
It should be slightly thick but still have some sauce.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors improve after resting.
How do I prevent paprika from burning?
Add it off direct heat or stir it in quickly before adding tomatoes.
Is Lecso similar to ratatouille?
They are similar but differ in seasoning and ingredients.
Conclusion
Hungarian Lecso is a comforting and flavorful dish that highlights simple ingredients and traditional cooking. Its versatility and rich taste make it a wonderful addition to any meal, whether served alone or alongside other dishes.
PrintHungarian Lecso
Hungarian Lecso is a traditional vegetable stew made with peppers, tomatoes, and onions simmered with paprika for a rich, comforting flavor. This simple dish highlights vibrant ingredients and is perfect as a main or side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Hungarian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- bell peppers
- ripe tomatoes
- onion
- olive oil or lard
- garlic
- sweet paprika
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Slice onions and peppers into thin strips and chop tomatoes.
- Heat olive oil or lard in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until softened and lightly golden.
- Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add peppers and cook until they begin to soften.
- Sprinkle in paprika and stir quickly to coat without burning.
- Add chopped tomatoes and mix well.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer gently until vegetables are tender and flavors combine.
- Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
- Use Hungarian wax peppers for a more authentic flavor.
- Add sausage or eggs for a heartier version.
- Be careful not to burn the paprika as it can turn bitter.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months, though texture may soften.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
