Cut off the tops and carefully remove the stems and seeds, keeping the peppers intact so they can be filled.
Set them aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground pork
Uncooked rice
Chopped onion
Garlic
Hungarian paprika
Egg
Salt
Black pepper
Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
Avoid overmixing, which can make the filling dense.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the meat-and-rice mixture into each pepper.
Don’t pack the filling too tightly because the rice will expand as it cooks.
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a large pot.
🍅 4. Make the Tomato Sauce
Pour the tomato passata over and around the peppers.
Add the water or broth and season with salt. If you prefer the traditional sauce slightly sweeter, add a small amount of sugar.
The liquid should come partway up the peppers.
5. Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pot and cook over low heat for approximately 45–60 minutes, or until the peppers are tender, the rice is cooked, and the meat has reached a safe internal temperature.
Turn the peppers carefully once or twice if necessary.
6. Finish the Sauce
Remove the peppers and keep them warm.
If you prefer a thicker tomato sauce, simmer the sauce uncovered for a few additional minutes.
For a more traditional creamy-thickened version, you can make a small flour-based thickener and stir it into the sauce.
🥔 Traditional Hungarian Serving Style
One of the most popular ways to serve Töltött Paprika is with simple boiled potatoes.
Place a stuffed pepper on each plate, spoon plenty of tomato sauce over the top, and serve with warm boiled potatoes.
A small spoonful of sour cream can also be added for extra richness.
Tips for Perfect Töltött Paprika
Choose mild peppers. Traditional Hungarian peppers are usually flavorful without overwhelming heat.
Don’t overfill them. Rice expands during cooking, so leave a little room inside each pepper.
Use Hungarian sweet paprika. It gives the filling its characteristic Hungarian flavor.
Cook gently. A slow simmer helps the peppers become tender without falling apart.
Let the dish rest. Allowing the peppers to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.
Can You Make It Ahead?
Yes. Hungarian stuffed peppers are an excellent make-ahead meal.
After cooling, store them with their sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until thoroughly hot.
The flavors can become even more developed after resting overnight.
A Taste of Hungarian Home Cooking
Töltött Paprika is a wonderful example of traditional Hungarian cuisine: straightforward ingredients, plenty of paprika, and slow cooking that turns everything into a comforting meal.
The tender pepper, savory meat-and-rice filling, and rich tomato sauce work beautifully together.
Final Thoughts
Hungarian Stuffed Peppers (Töltött Paprika) are hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing around the family table. Served with boiled potatoes and tomato sauce, they make a satisfying traditional Hungarian meal that feels both rustic and special.
If you’re exploring Hungarian cuisine, this classic recipe is definitely one to add to your collection. 🇭🇺🌶️🍅
