Savory Hungarian Cheese Spread (Körözött)

Here’s an authentic, old-world recipe for Savory Hungarian Cheese Spread (Körözött)—bold, paprika-forward, and perfect with bread or vegetables.

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Hungarian Cheese Spread (Körözött)

What It Tastes Like

Creamy • tangy • smoky • mildly spicy
A classic pub and home spread across Hungary and Austria.

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Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) farmer’s cheese or quark
  (substitute: dry cottage cheese, well drained, or ricotta mixed with cream cheese)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

• 2–3 tbsp sour cream

• 1 small onion or shallot, very finely minced

• 1½ tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika

• ½ tsp hot paprika or cayenne (optional, to taste)

• 1 tsp caraway seeds, lightly crushed

• 1 tsp Dijon or Hungarian mustard

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1–2 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• Optional garnish: chives or parsley

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Instructions

1. Cream the Base
   In a bowl, mash cheese and butter together until mostly smooth.

2. Season & Mix
   Stir in sour cream, onion, paprikas, caraway, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Adjust Texture
   Add a bit more sour cream if softer spread is desired.

4. Rest for Flavor
   Cover and refrigerate 30–60 minutes for flavors to meld.

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Serving Traditions

• Spread on dark rye or sourdough bread

• Serve with raw vegetables (radishes, peppers, cucumbers)

• Fill stuffed peppers or deviled eggs

• Traditional with pretzels or pogácsa

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Authentic Tips

• Use true Hungarian sweet paprika for best flavor and color.

• Onion should be minced extremely fine—almost a paste.

• Körözött should be boldly seasoned but balanced by tang.

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Variations

• Liptauer-style: Add anchovy paste or capers

• Smoky: Add smoked paprika

• Herb-forward: Add fresh chives or dill

If you’d like, I can also share a Vegan Körözött, Austrian Liptauer comparison, or party platter ideas.