Here is the traditional Hungarian Haluski – Cabbage and Noodles (Káposztás Tészta) 🇭🇺🥬
A humble, comforting dish that’s sweet-savory, buttery, and deeply nostalgic in Hungary.
🥬 Hungarian Haluski (Cabbage and Noodles)
Káposztás Tészta
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles
- 1 small head green cabbage (about 1½ lb / 700 g), finely shredded
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 tablespoons butter or lard
- 1 tablespoon oil (optional, helps prevent burning)
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar (traditional – adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, generously
Instructions
- Cook the noodles
Boil noodles in well-salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside (reserve a little pasta water). - Prepare the cabbage
Sprinkle shredded cabbage with salt and let sit 10 minutes.
Squeeze out excess moisture. - Caramelize
Heat butter (and oil) in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft.
Add sugar and let it melt and turn light amber. - Cook the cabbage
Add cabbage to the skillet.
Cook slowly, stirring often, for 20–30 minutes until deep golden brown and sweet. - Combine
Add cooked noodles to the cabbage.
Toss well, adding a splash of pasta water if needed. - Season
Add plenty of freshly ground black pepper.
Taste and adjust salt.
Traditional Variations
- Savory version: skip sugar, add extra pepper
- With bacon: fry chopped bacon first, cook cabbage in the fat
- Grandma-style: finish with extra butter just before serving
Serving Suggestions
- As a main dish on meatless days
- Side dish with roasted meats or sausages
- Best enjoyed hot, simple, and generous with pepper
This is true Hungarian comfort food—simple ingredients, unforgettable flavor ❤️
If you want, I can also give you:
- Homemade Hungarian noodles (házi tészta)
- Potato haluski version
- Authentic countryside method
Just tell me 😊
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