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Hungarian cuisine is renowned for its hearty and flavorful dishes, with many meals designed to offer comfort and satisfaction. One of the most cherished comfort foods in Hungary is Túrós Csusza, a dish that combines the simple goodness of egg noodles with the creamy tang of curd cheese and the savory crunch of crispy bacon. This humble yet deeply satisfying dish holds a special place in Hungarian culinary tradition.
Ingredients
- 500 g of fresh egg noodles or wide pasta
- 250 g of fresh curd cheese túró
- 100 g of bacon sliced or chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons of sour cream optional
- 1 tsp of paprika preferably Hungarian
- 1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the noodlesBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are tender yet firm (al dente). Once cooked, drain the noodles and reserve a small amount of the cooking water.
- Fry the baconIn a large pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy and golden brown. This will release its fat, creating a smoky base for the dish. Once the bacon is ready, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
- Combine the noodles and curd cheeseAdd the boiled noodles into the same pan. If the pan is too dry, add a spoonful of the reserved cooking water. Stir in the fresh curd cheese, ensuring the noodles are well-coated and the cheese has melted into a creamy consistency. Adjust the cheese amount according to your desired richness.
- Season the dishSprinkle paprika and black pepper into the mixture, stirring to combine. The paprika gives the dish a warm, slightly smoky flavor, while the black pepper adds a subtle heat. Taste the dish and adjust with salt if needed.
- Add the crispy baconFold the crispy bacon into the noodles and cheese mixture, ensuring that the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the dish. The bacon adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor to every bite.
- Serve and garnishTransfer the Túrós Csusza onto serving plates. Optionally, add a spoonful of sour cream on top to enhance the creaminess. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Notes
A dish with rustic charm and deep traditions
Túrós Csusza has its roots in Hungary's rural history, where food was often made from locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. Rural Hungarian families traditionally transformed basic, everyday ingredients into filling meals that were both comforting and nourishing. The dish’s name is derived from two Hungarian words: "csusza", which refers to the wide, flat noodles, and "túrós", which means curd cheese (túró). This cheese is the dish’s signature ingredient, adding a creamy richness that defines Túrós Csusza. While the dish may appear simple, its flavor profile is rich and deeply satisfying, making it a beloved part of Hungary’s culinary heritage.
What makes Túrós Csusza special?
Túrós Csusza stands out for its blend of flavors and textures. Here’s what makes this dish so unique:- Creamy curd cheese (túró): Provides a tangy, rich texture that forms the base of the dish.
- Crispy bacon: Adds a smoky, salty contrast to the smoothness of the cheese, elevating the flavor.
- Egg noodles: Serve as the perfect vehicle for the creamy cheese and bacon, with their soft, chewy texture.
- Paprika and black pepper: Offer a subtle heat and depth to the dish, complementing the richness of the other ingredients.
- Optional toppings: A dollop of sour cream or extra bacon bits can be added for additional creaminess and texture.
Serving suggestions
Túrós Csusza is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Here are some ways to serve this delicious dish:- With a side salad: A crisp, refreshing salad can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. A simple cucumber salad with a vinegar dressing is a perfect complement.
- Extra toppings: For an even more indulgent experience, you can sprinkle additional crispy bacon on top or drizzle more sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Main or side dish: Túrós Csusza can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside other Hungarian staples like goulash or hearty stews.
Why you should try Túrós Csusza
Túrós Csusza is more than just a dish—it's a taste of Hungarian tradition and comfort. Here’s why you should add it to your culinary repertoire:
- A Hungarian classic: This dish embodies the warmth and simplicity of Hungarian home cooking. It's perfect for sharing with family and friends.
- Balanced flavors: The dish strikes a perfect balance between creamy, smoky, and savory flavors, making it incredibly satisfying.
- A glimpse into Hungarian food culture: By making Túrós Csusza, you’re connecting with centuries of Hungarian culinary traditions, where simple ingredients are transformed into something special.
