Kötözött

Kötözött is a Hungarian culinary term referring to a method of preparing meat, most commonly pork, by binding it with string before cooking. This technique is often employed for roasts or rolled dishes to help them maintain a compact shape and ensure even cooking. The practice prevents the meat from falling apart during the cooking process, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and manageable final product.

The type of string used is typically food-safe kitchen twine. The process involves wrapping the twine around the piece of meat at regular intervals, creating a tight, cylindrical form. This binding also helps to keep any stuffing or seasonings contained within the meat. Kötözött preparations are frequently found in traditional Hungarian cuisine, often served at festive occasions or family gatherings. The resulting cooked meat is usually tender and flavorful, with the binding ensuring that the juices are retained within the roast. After cooking, the twine is removed before slicing.