How long can I store leftovers?

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

Can I substitute smoked sausages with another protein?

Yes, you can use bacon or ham for a similar smoky flavor.

Is it possible to make this lecso vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausages and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

Can I make lecso in advance?

Yes, lecso tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together, so feel free to prepare it a day ahead.

Does lecso freeze well?

Yes, lecso can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat gently before serving.

Rich Hungarian Lecso with Smoked Sausages and Paprika

Name: Rich Hungarian Lecso with Smoked Sausages and Paprika
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Sunflower oil; Onions, thinly sliced; Bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced; Tomatoes, chopped; Hungarian sweet paprika; Smoked sausages, sliced; Garlic, minced; Salt; Ground black pepper; Sugar; Hot paprika; Fresh parsley for garnish

A traditional Eastern European pepper stew with a smoky twist

This rich Hungarian lecso is a savory stew featuring the enticing flavors of smoked sausages and smoky paprika, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

1 h 30 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Lecso Base

Sunflower oil

3 tablespoons

Onions, thinly sliced

2 large

Bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced

3 medium

Tomatoes, chopped

3 medium

Hungarian sweet paprika

2 tablespoons

For the Smoked Sausages

Smoked sausages, sliced

250g

Garlic, minced

2 cloves

For Seasoning

Salt

1 teaspoon

Ground black pepper

½ teaspoon

Sugar

1 tablespoon

Optional Ingredients

Hot paprika

1 teaspoon

Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Vegetables

Heat oil

Heat the sunflower oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Cook onions

Add the sliced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook peppers

Stir in the bell peppers and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Preparing the Sausages

Brown sausages

In a separate pan, lightly brown the smoked sausages over medium heat.

Add garlic

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Set aside

Set aside sausages and garlic once done.

Cooking Process

Make the lecso base

Add the tomatoes to the pot, along with Hungarian paprika, and cook for 5 minutes.

Be careful not to burn the paprika as it can turn bitter.

Combine ingredients

Incorporate the smoked sausages into the lecso base.

Simmer

Stir in the seasonings, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking.

Plating & Serving