Among the many culinary delights Hungary has to offer, one humble yet iconic dish stands out on every corner—from bustling food markets to lakeside vendors: lángos. This golden, deep-fried flatbread is more than just a snack; it’s a beloved tradition, a comfort food, and a symbol of the nation’s flavorful street food culture.
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour about 4 cups
- 250 ml lukewarm milk 1 cup
- 150 ml lukewarm water just over ½ cup
- 25 g fresh yeast or 7 g active dry yeast 2 tsp
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil plus more for frying
Optional toppings:
- Garlic oil
- Sour cream tejföl
- Grated cheese e.g. Edam, mozzarella
- Bacon bits or sautéed onions
- Tomato sauce, sausage, pickled vegetables
- Nutella, jam, powdered sugar for sweet version
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it rest for 10 minutes, until bubbly and activated.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture, warm water, and vegetable oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead and let it rise: Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and leave it in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Divide and shape: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 6 to 8 equal portions. Lightly oil your hands and stretch each portion into a round disc about 1 cm (½ inch) thick.
- Fry the lángos: Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). Carefully lower one piece of dough into the oil and fry for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Repeat with the rest. Drain on paper towels.
- Add toppings and serve: While still warm, brush each lángos with garlic oil and add your favorite toppings—savory or sweet!
Notes
A bite of history: from village ovens to festival stalls
The origins of lángos trace back centuries, to a time when Hungarian families baked bread in large clay ovens. In those days, before the main loaves went in, a small piece of dough was flattened and baked near the open flame—earning the name “lángos,” derived from láng, meaning “flame.” It was a quick, toasty bite meant to satisfy hunger while the bigger loaves slowly baked.
Over the years, this rustic practice transformed. The oven-baked version gave way to a deep-fried delight, cooked in bubbling oil until golden and crisp. This version captured the hearts of Hungarians and became a staple in markets and fairs across the country. Today, lángos is the crown jewel of Hungarian street cuisine.
What makes lángos unforgettable
There’s something irresistibly indulgent about lángos. It’s:- Crispy and golden on the outside, with a soft, airy interior that melts in your mouth
- Fried to order, so it's always fresh and warm
- Versatile and customizable, topped with everything from savory cheeses to sweet spreads
- Deeply comforting, offering a nostalgic taste of Hungarian tradition
Classic and creative toppings for every taste
Lángos is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular toppings that make each bite unforgettable:- 🔥 Garlic oil – brushed on top for a bold, savory kick
- 🥄 Sour cream (tejföl) and shredded cheese – the most traditional and beloved combination
- 🥓 Crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or ham – for a rich, meaty twist
- 🍅 Tomato sauce, sausage, or pickled peppers – turning it into a street-style Hungarian pizza
- 🍫 Nutella, cinnamon sugar, or jam – for a sweet spin that’s especially popular with kids
When and where to enjoy lángos
Lángos isn’t just a quick bite—it’s an experience. You’ll find it:- 🛍 At open-air food markets, fairs, and local festivals throughout the year
- 🌄 As a satisfying breakfast or indulgent late-night snack after a night out
- 🏖 On the shores of Lake Balaton—where eating lángos with garlic and cheese by the water is practically a summer tradition
Why lángos is a must-try
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler in Hungary, skipping lángos would be a missed opportunity. Here’s why you shouldn’t pass it up:
- 🔥 It’s one of Hungary’s most iconic and widely loved street foods
- 💛 It brings comfort, crunch, and a burst of flavor in every bite
- 🧑🍳 It's easy to make at home and endlessly customizable
- 🧳 It's a true culinary souvenir—a taste of Hungarian culture you won’t forget
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