Traditional Hungarian Layered Potatoes (Rakott Krumpli) Recipe

Ingredients

1 kg potatoes
4 hard boiled eggs
300 grams of smoked sausage
300 grams of sour cream
1 large onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

Peel the potatoes and boil them in a large pot of salted water until they are thoroughly cooked, then drain and set aside.
Hard boil the eggs, cool them under cold water, peel and set aside.
Slice the smoked sausage and fry it in a pan with the vegetable oil until it's crispy. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Sauté the onion and garlic in the same pan with the leftover sausage fat until they are golden brown.
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
Slice the cooked potatoes and hard boiled eggs.
Start layering the ingredients in a baking dish. First, add a layer of sliced potatoes, then a layer of hard boiled eggs, a layer of crispy sausage, and a layer of sautéed onion and garlic. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
Spread the sour cream evenly on top of the last layer of potatoes.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sour cream is bubbling.
Allow the Rakott Krumpli to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Potato peeler - Used to peel the potatoes.
Large pot - For boiling the potatoes.
Colander - Used to drain the boiled potatoes.
Pan - Used to fry the smoked sausage.
Knife - For slicing the potatoes, hard boiled eggs, onion, and garlic.
Cutting board - Provides a surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
Baking dish - Used for layering and baking the Rakott Krumpli.
Oven - To bake the dish at the specified temperature.

Recipe variations

Vegetarian Variation: Replace the smoked sausage with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
Meat-Free Variation: Omit the smoked sausage altogether and add extra layers of sliced potatoes and hard boiled eggs.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, on top of the sour cream before baking for a cheesy crust.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapenos or chili flakes between the layers for a spicy kick.
Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives with the sour cream before spreading it on top for added flavor.
Crunchy Crust: Top the final layer of potatoes with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter for a crispy texture.
Smoked Meat Variation: Replace the smoked sausage with bacon or pancetta for a smoky and savory flavor.
Sweet Potato Variation: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter version of Rakott Krumpli.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for the roux used in sautéing the onion and garlic.
Extra Garlic: Increase the amount of garlic cloves for a stronger garlic flavor.

Recipe overview

Rakott Krumpli is a classic Hungarian layered potato dish. It's hearty, flavorful and perfect for a comforting dinner. The dish is made by layering boiled potatoes, hard boiled eggs, smoked sausage and caramelized onions. Each layer is then topped with sour cream, creating a creamy and indulgent bake. This recipe is easy to follow and requires simple ingredients, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Expect a deliciously satisfying meal with a beautiful blend of textures and flavors. Enjoy this authentic Hungarian dish and immerse yourself in its rich culinary tradition.

Common questions

Can I use any type of potatoes for Rakott Krumpli?
Yes, you can use any type of potatoes for this recipe, but starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are recommended for the best texture.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of smoked sausage or even substitute it with cooked bacon or ham if desired.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a healthier option, but keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the dish slightly.
Can I prepare Rakott Krumpli in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the dish is chilled.
Can I freeze Rakott Krumpli?
Yes, you can freeze Rakott Krumpli. Make sure to cool it completely, then tightly wrap the baking dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking dish - A rectangular or square dish that is oven-safe and suitable for baking the Rakott Krumpli.
Potato peeler - A tool used to remove the skin from the potatoes.
Large pot - A pot that is large enough to boil the potatoes.
Pan - A frying pan or skillet used to fry the smoked sausage and sauté the onion and garlic.
Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the potatoes, eggs, smoked sausage, onion, and garlic.
Spatula - A flat utensil used for flipping and serving the Rakott Krumpli.
Oven - An appliance used for baking the Rakott Krumpli.

Origin stories

Rakott Krumpli is a traditional Hungarian dish with a humble origin. In times of scarcity, the resourceful Hungarian people relied on simple, hearty, and easily available ingredients to create nourishing meals. Potatoes were cheap, filling, and could be stored for a long time, making them a staple in many Hungarian households. Smoked sausage and sour cream added a flavor punch to this otherwise basic dish. Over time, Rakott Krumpli has evolved from a peasant's meal to a beloved comfort food enjoyed by all Hungarians. Its name translates to "stacked potatoes" in English, referring to the dish's distinct layered construction. Today, it is often served at family gatherings and is a testament to Hungary's rich culinary heritage, where simple ingredients can be transformed into flavorful and satisfying meals.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.