Lekvárokban

Lekvárokban is a Hungarian term that translates to "in jams" or "in preserves." It refers to a culinary context where food is cooked and stored in a jam-like consistency, typically made from fruit and sugar. This method is a traditional way of preserving fruits in Hungary, allowing them to be enjoyed long after their natural harvesting season.

The process of making lekvár involves simmering fruits, often with added sugar and sometimes spices like cinnamon or cloves, until they thicken considerably. Unlike many Western fruit preserves that may contain pectin to achieve a firm gel, traditional Hungarian lekvár is often cooked down slowly to a very dense, spreadable consistency without added gelling agents. This results in a rich, intensely flavored product.

Common fruits used for lekvárokban include plums (szilvalekvár is particularly popular), apricots, cherries, and strawberries. The resulting lekvár can be used in a variety of ways. It serves as a common filling for pastries such as pogácsa (a type of scone), kifli (crescent rolls), and palacsinta (Hungarian crepes). It can also be spread on bread or toast, or served as an accompaniment to savory dishes like goose or pork. The term emphasizes the state of being preserved or prepared within this jam-like medium.