Fasírt

Fasírt is a dish of ground meat formed into patties or a small loaf, typically fried or baked. It is common in Hungary and across Central and Eastern Europe, where it is regarded as a traditional home-cooked dish and is similar in concept to meatloaf or a hamburger patty.

Typical fasírt is made from ground pork, or a mixture of pork and beef, sometimes veal. The mixture is enriched with finely chopped onion and garlic, soaked breadcrumbs or torn bread, eggs, salt, pepper, and often paprika or other spices; chopped parsley or other herbs may be included. The ingredients are mixed, formed into oval or round patties, and cooked by shallow-frying in oil or by baking until browned and cooked through.

Regional varieties exist under different names. In Slovakia and the Czech Republic the dish is known as fašírka, and in some contexts analogous preparations appear across the region. Similar concepts appear in Romania as chiftele and in other neighboring cuisines, reflecting the shared culinary traditions of Central and Eastern Europe.

Serving usually comprises a main course with accompaniments such as mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, dumplings, or bread, with a sauce, gravy, or tomato-based sauce. Fasírt is commonly prepared at home, in cafeterias, and in casual eateries.