Körözött Paprika Cheese Spread
Körözött is a traditional Hungarian savory spread made from cottage cheese (túró), seasoned with paprika, caraway seeds, and often onions. It's a versatile appetizer or snack, perfect for spreading on fresh bread or using as a dip.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dry cottage cheese or farmer's cheese(ensure it's dry and crumbly, not watery)
- 30 g Butter(softened)
- 2 tbsp Sour cream
- 2 tsp Sweet red paprika powder(Hungarian sweet paprika recommended for color and flavor)
- 1 tsp Ground caraway seeds
- 0.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 stalks Spring onions(finely chopped, for mixing in and garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine the dry cottage cheese, softened butter, and sour cream. Mash with a fork or a potato masher until well combined and relatively smooth.
- 2
Add the sweet paprika, ground caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the spread has a uniform orange color and all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 3
If using, stir in the finely chopped spring onions.
- 4
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours (or preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling time is crucial for the best taste.
- 5
Before serving, give the spread a good stir. Garnish with additional chopped spring onions if desired. Serve with fresh bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using dry, crumbly cottage cheese or farmer's cheese is essential for the right texture. Watery cottage cheese will result in a runny spread.
- ✓Hungarian sweet paprika is highly recommended for its vibrant color and authentic flavor.
- ✓Allowing the spread to chill for several hours is key to developing its characteristic flavor profile.
- ✓Variations include adding a small amount of Dijon mustard or finely minced garlic.
🔄 Variations
- For a richer flavor, some recipes include a tablespoon of softened butter.
- A pinch of Dijon mustard can add a subtle tang.
- Finely minced garlic can be added for extra flavor, though it's not traditional in all recipes.