Whenever I’m looking to bring a taste of comfort food to my table, Lecso is my go-to dish. The vibrant colors and fragrant spices create a warm atmosphere that feels like home. This dish is fantastic on its own or paired with crusty bread for dipping, fluffy rice for absorbing every bit of flavor, or even alongside a fried egg for a hearty brunch.
Last week, I served it at a small gathering, and you wouldn’t believe how quickly it disappeared. Everybody left asking for the recipe!
Lecso is a traditional Hungarian dish that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s a vegetable stew that relies on fresh ingredients and comforting spices. As someone who loves exploring diverse cuisines, Lecso has a special place in my heart.
It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer produce, bringing together the best flavors of the season.
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What is Lecso Recipe?
Lecso, at its core, is a sautéed mix of tomatoes, peppers, and onions, typically seasoned with sweet paprika. This dish embodies the essence of home cooking in Hungary and has countless variations. What makes Lecso so appreciated is its versatility— it’s a fantastic side, a main meal, or even a filling for other dishes.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Lecso Recipes?
This Lecso recipe adds a twist by incorporating garlic and fresh herbs, enhancing the flavor profile without overshadowing the classic taste. While many recipes focus solely on the vegetables and paprika, my version embraces a blend of textures and tastes that elevates this dish to a new level of deliciousness.
How Does It Taste?
Expect a delightful combination of sweet and savory notes in every bite. The freshness of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the peppers harmonize beautifully, elevated by the mild spice of paprika. It’s a dish that comforts and delights, inviting you to take another spoonful. Perfect for any palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
– 6 medium tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 4 yellow wax peppers (or banana/cubanelle peppers), diced
– 2 medium onions, sliced thinly
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced (for an extra flavor boost)
– 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
– Salt, to taste
– Ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (to brighten things up)
Ingredients From : budapestcookingclass.com
How to Make Lecso Recipe?
The steps to creating Lecso are straightforward, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Follow the steps closely for the best results!
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over low to medium heat. Once hot, toss in the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them gently, stirring frequently so they don’t brown too quickly. You want them to soften and turn translucent. A pinch of salt at this stage will help them cook down nicely. If you find that they’re getting too dry and starting to stick, add just a splash of water to keep everything moving smoothly.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, mix in the chopped tomatoes. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for about five minutes. The tomatoes will break down and create a lovely, saucy base.
Step 3: Incorporate the Peppers
After the tomatoes have softened, it’s time to add the diced yellow peppers to the pot. You’ll also add in the sweet paprika—make sure to sprinkle it over the top and stir it in gently to avoid burning. Season with ground black pepper according to your taste. Cover again and let everything cook together for another 5 to 8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the peppers; you want them tender yet still slightly crisp.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
Give everything a good stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. If you’re a fan of fresh herbs like parsley, now is a great time to fold that in. The vibrant green will not only enhance flavor but also add a delicious visual pop.
Step 5: Serving Options
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Traditionally, it’s enjoyed with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside eggs. You’ll find that it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Tips & Tricks On Making Lecso Recipe
– Use Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will truly elevate this dish, giving it natural sweetness and acidity.
– Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time with the onions; caramelizing them brings out the sweetness and depth of flavor.
– Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add chili flakes if you like a little heat!
– Make it Ahead: Lecso can be made ahead of time. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
– Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, like zucchini or eggplant, to make it your own.
How Do I Store This Dish?
To store Lecso, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, it freezes well—just ensure you use a freezer-safe container. Before serving again, thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
1. Serve with Crusty Bread: Sopping up Lecso with warm, crusty bread is one of life’s small pleasures.
2. Pair with Fried Eggs: A sunny-side-up egg on top makes for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
3. Over Rice: Spoon it generously over a heap of fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting main dish.
4. Side with Sausages: Grilled or pan-seared sausages work splendidly as a meaty companion.
5. Enjoy with Potato Dumplings: For a traditional Hungarian touch, serve alongside potato dumplings.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Lecso Recipe?
1. Different Types of Peppers: Swap the yellow wax peppers for red bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
2. Onion Varieties: You can also use red onions for a touch of sweetness and color.
3. Vegan Alternative: Replace the vegetable oil with olive oil for a heart-healthy twist.
4. Spices Variation: Consider adding a dash of cumin for an intriguing flavor profile.
5. Add Protein: For a non-vegetarian option, diced smoked sausage adds a delightful flavor combination.
Equipment
- Large pot
- cutting board
- knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- – 6 medium tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces
- – 4 yellow wax peppers or banana/cubanelle peppers, diced
- – 2 medium onions sliced thinly
- – 2 cloves of garlic minced (for an extra flavor boost)
- – 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
- – Salt to taste
- – Ground black pepper to taste
- – 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- – 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (to brighten things up)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over low to medium heat. Once hot, toss in the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them gently, stirring frequently so they don’t brown too quickly. You want them to soften and turn translucent. A pinch of salt at this stage will help them cook down nicely. If you find that they’re getting too dry and starting to stick, add just a splash of water to keep everything moving smoothly.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
- Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, mix in the chopped tomatoes. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for about five minutes. The tomatoes will break down and create a lovely, saucy base.
Step 3: Incorporate the Peppers
- After the tomatoes have softened, it’s time to add the diced yellow peppers to the pot. You’ll also add in the sweet paprika—make sure to sprinkle it over the top and stir it in gently to avoid burning. Season with ground black pepper according to your taste. Cover again and let everything cook together for another 5 to 8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the peppers; you want them tender yet still slightly crisp.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
- Give everything a good stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. If you’re a fan of fresh herbs like parsley, now is a great time to fold that in. The vibrant green will not only enhance flavor but also add a delicious visual pop.
Step 5: Serving Options
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Traditionally, it’s enjoyed with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside eggs. You’ll find that it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I make Lecso without oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of oil to sauté the onions. This will reduce the fat content.
2. Is Lecso gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
3. Can I use canned tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes are ideal, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. Choose high-quality diced tomatoes and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. How do I know when the peppers are cooked perfectly?
You want the peppers to be tender but still hold their shape. Give them a taste as they cook to find your desired texture.
5. Can I add cheese to Lecso?
Of course! Adding a sprinkle of feta or grated cheese at serving time can create a delicious contrast to the dish’s other flavors.
Conclusion
Lecso is a beautiful representation of comfort cooking, showcasing vibrant flavors and simple ingredients. As someone who loves food that nourishes both body and soul, this dish holds a special spot in my rotation. Whether you enjoy it as a side or a main, I hope my version inspires you to give this Hungarian classic a try.
Serve it up with enthusiasm, and watch as it brings joy to your table, just like it has to mine. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with your friends and family!
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Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more