Vegetarian Lentil Paprikash Recipe – Hungarian Special
This Vegetarian Lentil Paprikash Recipe is a comforting European-inspired main course bursting with flavor and color. Made with hearty lentils, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, this dish brings a modern twist to traditional Hungarian-style cooking. Perfect for meatless dinners, family meals, or weekday comfort food, it pairs beautifully with cooked noodles, rice, or crusty bread. Each bite delivers warmth, creaminess, and wholesome nutrition — ideal for cozy evenings.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time35 min
- Total Time50 min
Vegetarian Lentil Paprikash Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green), rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional Sides:
- Cooked noodles
- Rice or crusty bread
Vegetarian Lentil Paprikash Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
Stir in bell pepper and cook for 3–4 minutes
Add paprika and tomato paste; stir for 1 minute to release the aroma.
Add lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Stir in sour cream or yogurt and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with noodles, rice, or bread.
Recipe Notes :
Paprika Choice: Use high-quality Hungarian-style paprika for a deep, authentic flavor.
Vegan Option: Replace sour cream with cashew cream or plant-based yogurt.
Add-Ons: Include carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms for extra heartiness.
Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed with buttered noodles, rice, or warm bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
