etelek

Etelek is a term commonly used in Hungarian cuisine to refer to dishes or meals. It is a broad category encompassing a wide variety of food preparations, from simple appetizers to elaborate main courses and desserts. The word itself is the plural form of "étel," meaning "dish" or "food."

Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, often featuring paprika, onions, and sour cream. Etelek can therefore include dishes like goulash, a hearty stew, or chicken paprikash, a creamy chicken dish. Other common etelek include stuffed cabbage rolls (töltött káposzta), various kinds of dumplings (galuska or nokedli), and rich pastries like Dobos torte. The preparation and presentation of etelek often reflect a long culinary tradition, with recipes passed down through generations. The term is used in everyday conversation when referring to what one is cooking, eating, or planning to eat.