Potato Paprikash

Potato Paprikash without Meat - a Delicious Vegan Recipe

Paprikash is one of those comfort foods that reminds us of family meals, moments of sharing, and the warmth of home. This potato paprikash recipe without meat is a savory alternative, perfect for fasting periods or for anyone looking for a light and healthy meal. Like many traditional recipes, each family has its own version, but today I will reveal how you can achieve a flavorful and hearty paprikash with an unforgettable taste.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients you will need:

For the paprikash:
- 500 g potatoes (preferably floury type, which mash easily)
- 2 colorful bell peppers (red and yellow for a vibrant look)
- 1 large onion
- 3 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive oil)
- 2 tablespoons paprika (choose a quality, sweet paprika)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- salt and pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:
- 1 cup sparkling water (or still water, but sparkling water adds extra fluffiness)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 g flour (type 000 for a fine texture)
- salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the paprikash:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. Cut them into small cubes, about 2-3 cm, for even cooking. Slice the peppers into strips, and chop the onion finely. Crush or finely chop the garlic.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and let it heat over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sauté the onion but not so hot that it burns.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the dish.

4. Adding the vegetables: Now, add the potatoes and peppers to the pot. Sprinkle a teaspoon of salt to help the vegetables release their juices. Mix well and let them sauté together for 5 minutes.

5. Boiling: Add 1-2 cups of water, enough to cover the potatoes. Place the lid on the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork.

6. Flavoring: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the paprika and crushed garlic. Season with pepper to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

Preparing the dumplings:

1. Preparing the mixture: In a bowl, mix the sparkling water with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the flour, whisking to avoid lumps. The mixture should have the consistency of thick cream.

2. Boiling the dumplings: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Using a teaspoon, scoop the dumpling mixture and drop them into the boiling water. Boil for 15 minutes until they become fluffy and easier to handle. You can check if they are done by removing one with a spatula and cutting it in half; if cooked, it will have a uniform texture.

3. Assembling: Once the dumplings are ready, remove them from the water and add them to the pot with paprikash. Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes for the dumplings to absorb the flavorful sauce.

Serving:

Potato paprikash is served hot, alongside a fresh salad, preferably with seasonal vegetables, to bring a refreshing contrast. You can garnish it with a bit of freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor. Fresh bread is also welcome to accompany this delicious dish.

Suggestions and variations:

If you want to try a richer version, you can add some mushrooms or zucchini, which pair perfectly with the other ingredients. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, the dumplings can be boiled directly in the paprikash while it simmers.

You will likely receive frequent questions about cooking time or the type of peppers used. You can opt for hot peppers if you like a spicier taste, or add some spices like cumin or coriander for a more exotic flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Potato paprikash is an excellent recipe nutritionally. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Peppers bring vitamins A and C, contributing to strengthening the immune system, while garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe is also low in calories, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used.

I invite you to try this potato paprikash recipe without meat and enjoy its savory taste and enticing aromas. It is perfect for both lunch and dinner, and will surely become a family favorite. Perhaps it will also become your cooking story, with each serving bringing not just food, but moments of joy and warmth alongside your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!