To Hungarian children, of course, it’s all about Mikulás. But for the grown-ups, Christmas celebrations in Hungary focus a lot on the culinary delights. Here are a few of the highlights. Halászlé (Fish Soup) As a relic of the earlier church tradition of fasting for Advent, it is still traditional for fish to be eaten [...]
Paprenjak is a traditional Croatian biscuit that contains a unique mix of honey, walnuts, pepper and spices. Its origin is still unclear but it is known to have existed since the 16th century and more lately its become a family tradition in many Croatian homes to make paprenjak for Christmas. To make paprenjak you need special wooden mould’s [...]
Honey cookies also known as mézeskalács are a traditional Christmas treat in Hungary and are often sold at festivals and markets. Similar to gingerbread, these cookies are made with honey and spices and are decorated with white sugar icing. This recipe is an adaptation from Nora Papp’s recipe, who is the creator and editor of Wise Lady, a [...]
Fritule is a traditional Croatian pastry that is most commonly made for Christmas. Although very similar to a doughnut these fluffy pastries are actually much smaller in size and are shaped into round balls. In this recipe, sour cream and grated apples are used to give it a richer taste. They make an excellent accompaniment to [...]
This recipe for kulich is by food blogger Alina Petropavlovska and her mother who have kept the tradition of baking this sweet bread for Easter every year. She says this recipe reminds her of the incense they use in the Orthodox church as it combines the perfect blend of spices. A few tricks that Alina has recommended for making a great kulich involves kneading the dough [...]
Farsang is known as the carnival season in Hungary, is the time where Hungarians celebrate with rich and fatty foods. In particular, the Fánk, similar to a doughnut is a common treat for many locals. Ingredients 1 tsp (8 grams) active dry yeast 2 cups (474 ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (125 grams) granulated sugar 1/2 tsp [...]
No other time are poppy seed rolls most enjoyed than during the Christmas season especially in Hungary and other parts of Central and Eastern Europe. These sweet rolls have always been a favorite and almost every family prides themselves on having a great recipe to make them. For this recipe, I have chosen to add a citrus glaze on top. You [...]
Ingredients 6 large potatoes, peeled and shredded 2 eggs, beaten 1 onion, finely chopped 1-2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 cup (115 grams) flour 4 tbsp (50 grams)butter 4 tbsp (50 grams) oil salt and pepper to taste Directions In a large bowl, add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix in the potatoes, onions, and [...]
Originating in Austria, the term “Linzertorte” refers to a rich buttery pastry that is filled with fruit preserves. Traditionally the pastry is made into a tart but cookies are also common. They can be formed into all shapes and sizes making it ideal for holidays and special occasions. Ingredients 3/4 cups (170 grams) unsalted butter 1/2 [...]
Paskha is a traditional dessert served for Easter in Russia as well as other Eastern European countries to break the meat and dairy fast. The name of the dish comes from “Pascha“, the Eastern Orthodox celebration of Easter. Special Equipment Paskha cheese mold or a clean 1-quart terra-cotta flowerpot with a drainage hole Cheese-cloths Weights [...]
