Paprika with potatoes

Potato Paprikash: A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Potato paprikash is a dish that brings together the rich flavors of vegetables and spices, creating a comforting and delicious meal. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, easily adapting to everyone's tastes. Over time, it has become a popular dish in many cultures, often served on cool days or as part of a festive meal. Let's discover together how to prepare this potato paprikash step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 7-8 medium potatoes
- 2 large onions
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 carrot
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for sautéing

Preparing the potato paprikash

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onions, bell peppers, and carrot. Chop the onion finely, slice the bell pepper into larger strips, and cut the carrot into rounds. Make sure the vegetables are fresh, as their quality greatly influences the final taste of the dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and carrot, continuing to sauté together for another 5-7 minutes. This process will release the flavors of the vegetables and create a delicious base for the paprikash.

3. Adding the tomatoes: While the vegetables are sautéing, take care of the tomatoes. Peel them (you can dip them in hot water for a few seconds to make peeling easier), then chop them finely. Add the tomatoes to the skillet, mixing well to incorporate them. Season with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and add the bay leaves. These spices will add a layer of flavor that will transform the dish.

4. Boiling: Pour a cup of water into the skillet, stir well, cover with a lid, and let it simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes. This time will allow the vegetables to soften and reveal their flavors.

5. Preparing the potatoes: In the meantime, peel the potatoes, wash them, and cut them into larger pieces. Ensure they are cut evenly to cook at the same time. Add the potatoes to the skillet, cover everything with water, and season with salt and pepper.

6. Adding the broth: After about 10 minutes, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let the paprikash simmer on low heat, covered, until the potatoes are cooked and the sauce has reduced, about 10-15 minutes. It's essential to check the consistency of the sauce from time to time, adjusting the amount of water if necessary.

7. Serving: Once the paprikash is ready, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. This detail will not only enhance the dish's appearance but will also add a fresh note. You can serve the paprikash with pickled cucumbers for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Useful tips:
- Use seasonal vegetables for a fresher and more vibrant taste.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to vary the recipe.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, add a finely chopped hot pepper.

Nutritional information (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 7 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of vegetables?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like zucchini, peas, or even mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the recipe easier?
To save time, you can use frozen vegetables or skip sautéing the vegetables and add them directly to the water.

3. What other dishes can be combined with it?
Potato paprikash pairs excellently with a cabbage salad or pickled cucumbers. Additionally, a glass of white wine or herbal tea would perfectly complement this meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Potato paprikash is not only a recipe full of flavor but also an opportunity to gather the family at the table, enjoying the inviting aromas. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and tell them about your culinary experience!