Wash the pork trotters thoroughly and pat them dry.
If necessary, ask your butcher to cut them into serving-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Onion Base
Heat the oil or lard in a large heavy-bottomed pot.
Add the chopped onions and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until soft and golden.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add the Paprika
Remove the pot briefly from the heat.
Add the sweet paprika and hot paprika, stirring quickly to prevent the spices from burning.
Immediately add the diced tomato and chopped green pepper.
Mix well.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Add the pork trotters to the pot.
Season with salt, black pepper, caraway seeds, and bay leaves.
Pour in the broth.
Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 2½ to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the sauce becomes rich and glossy.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the bay leaves.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with plenty of fresh crusty bread to soak up the delicious paprika sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Hungarian Pork Trotter Stew is delicious with:
Fresh rustic bread
Boiled potatoes
Homemade dumplings (Nokedli)
Pickles
Fresh onions
Cucumber salad
Tips
Hungarian sweet paprika is essential for authentic flavor.
Slow cooking is the key to tender meat and a rich sauce.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
The stew often tastes even better the next day.
Serve with plenty of bread to enjoy every drop of the flavorful sauce.
Variations
Add smoked sausage for a richer flavor.
Include hot peppers for extra heat.
Stir in mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Add a splash of dry red wine for added depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are pork trotters?
Pork trotters are the feet of the pig. When slow-cooked, they become incredibly tender and create a naturally rich, gelatinous sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Like many Hungarian stews, the flavors become even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Why is the sauce so thick?
The collagen released from the pork trotters naturally thickens the sauce during slow cooking.
Conclusion
Authentic Hungarian Pork Trotter Stew (Körömpörkölt) is a classic dish that showcases the heart of Hungarian home cooking. Rich, flavorful, and slow-simmered to perfection, it’s a comforting meal that’s ideal for sharing with family and friends. Serve it with warm crusty bread and enjoy one of Hungary’s most beloved traditional recipes.
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