Paprika with potatoes

Paprikash with Potatoes: A Comfort Food Recipe

Paprikash with potatoes is a dish that evokes pleasant memories and moments of warmth with family. It is a meal that brings together the rich flavors of fresh vegetables and spices to create a delicious and comforting final result. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for those who appreciate home-cooked food and want to enjoy a nourishing meal. Let’s venture into the kitchen and discover together how to prepare this paprikash with potatoes, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 7-8 medium potatoes (about 1 kg)
- 2 large onions
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 large carrot
- 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- Ground pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Preparing the ingredients:
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Peel and finely chop the onion. Cut the bell pepper into larger strips, and slice the carrot into rounds. Peel, wash, and cut the potatoes into larger pieces, so they hold their shape during cooking.

Cooking the vegetables:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the strips of bell pepper and carrot rounds, continuing to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Adding the tomatoes:
Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. To peel them more easily, you can dip them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them immediately to cold water. This technique simplifies peeling. Cut the tomatoes into small cubes and add them to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Also, add the bay leaves, mixing everything well.

Boiling and adding the potatoes:
Pour a cup of water into the skillet and cover with a lid. Let the vegetables boil for about 10 minutes, until the tomatoes break down and release their juice. Then, add the cut potatoes, covering everything with water. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let it boil for another 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are soft but not falling apart.

Adding the broth:
Once the potatoes are nearly done, add the tomato paste. This will add a rich flavor and intensify the color of the dish. Let it boil for a few minutes until the sauce starts to reduce and thicken.

Serving:
Once the paprikash is ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. Serve this hot paprikash with pickled cucumbers or a fresh summer salad. It’s an excellent choice for a family meal or a dinner among friends, bringing a convivial and cheerful atmosphere to the table.

Practical tips:
- For an even richer taste, you can add some diced sausage or chicken during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- If you want to experiment, try adding other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to vary the texture and flavors.
- The paprikash can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, tasting even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutritional information:
A serving of paprikash with potatoes (about 200 g) contains on average:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g

This dish is a good source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables used, such as vitamin C from tomatoes and fiber from potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes?
- Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but adjust the amount of salt and other seasonings, as they may already be salty.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- Absolutely! This recipe is vegan and can be enjoyed by anyone avoiding animal products.

3. How can I make this paprikash spicier?
- Add fresh chili peppers or chili powder during cooking, depending on personal preferences.

4. What drinks pair best with paprikash with potatoes?
- A white wine or a pale beer are excellent choices to accompany this dish, complementing the rich flavors of the vegetables.

Paprikash with potatoes is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings together fresh ingredients, tradition, and warmth. Don’t hesitate to experiment and add your personal touches, transforming this recipe into a unique dish that will surely become part of your culinary repertoire. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy this delicious recipe!