Heat oil or lard in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Sauté onions until soft and translucent (about 5–7 minutes).
Add peppers
Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 5–10 minutes until slightly tender.
Season with paprika
Stir in sweet paprika and optional hot paprika. Cook 1 minute to release the flavor (don’t burn the paprika).
Add tomatoes & garlic
Stir in tomatoes and garlic. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peppers are soft and the mixture is saucy.
Season & serve
Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve hot as a side dish, over rice, with bread, or as a main with sausage or a fried egg on top.
🌟 Tips & Variations
Meaty Lecsó: Add sliced smoked sausage or bacon while cooking onions.
Egg Lecsó: Crack a few eggs into the simmering mixture for a hearty breakfast or dinner.
Serve with fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
If you want, I can also give you a slow-cooker version of Hungarian Lecsó that’s perfect for busy weeknights and brings out extra flavor. Do you want me to share that?
