ételek

Ételek is the Hungarian plural noun meaning foods or dishes. In everyday use, the term refers to items prepared for consumption and can denote both ordinary meals and more formal courses; it appears in menus, cookbooks, and culinary discussion.

The singular form is étel; ételek is its plural. The word étel derives from Hungarian and is used to refer to any edible item, with étel as a countable noun in phrases like "egy étel" (one dish) or "több étel" (several dishes).

In Hungarian culture, ételek reflect regional diversity and seasonal ingredients. Traditional examples include gulyás (goulash), pörkölt, töltött paprika, halászlé, and lángos. Paprika, tejföl (sour cream), garlic, and other local components help define many ételek, and regional specialties vary across the Carpathian Basin.

Culinary practice around ételek typically involves a mix of simmering, stewing, roasting, and frying, with paprika-based sauces and hearty flavors common in many dishes. Proteins such as pork, beef, and freshwater fish are prevalent, along with vegetables, legumes, and dairy products.

In contemporary Hungary, ételek exist within a broader global food landscape. Trends include vegetarian and vegan options, sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, and the reinterpretation of traditional recipes by chefs and home cooks while preserving cultural heritage.