Savory Hungarian Cheese Spread (Körözött)
Creamy, tangy, and boldly seasoned
Körözött is a classic Hungarian cheese spread beloved across Central Europe. Made with fresh cheese, paprika, onion, and caraway seeds, it is intensely flavorful yet simple. Traditionally served with fresh bread, rye rolls, or vegetables, this savory spread is a staple at family gatherings, wine bars, and casual meals.
Bold paprika flavor and creamy texture make körözött instantly recognizable. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and improves in flavor after a short rest—making it perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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200 g (7 oz) quark, farmer cheese, or well-drained cottage cheese
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100 g (3½ oz) cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp sour cream
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1 small red onion or shallot, very finely minced
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1½ tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
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½ tsp hot paprika (optional, to taste)
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½ tsp ground caraway seeds
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1 tsp Dijon or mild mustard
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional additions: chopped chives, capers, anchovy paste, or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a medium bowl, mash the quark (or cottage cheese) with a fork until smooth. Add cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Tip: For a smoother texture, use a food processor.
Step 2: Season
Add minced onion, sweet paprika, hot paprika (if using), caraway, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Mix thoroughly until evenly colored and fragrant.
Step 3: Rest
Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to fully develop.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Texture & Flavor Profile
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Creamy and spreadable
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Tangy and savory from cultured dairy
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Warm paprika spice balanced by onion and caraway
Serving Suggestions
Serve körözött with:
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Fresh crusty bread or rye rolls
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Toast points or crackers
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Sliced bell peppers, radishes, or cucumbers
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As a sandwich spread or stuffed into celery sticks
Traditional Tips
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Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor
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Finely mince the onion to avoid overpowering the spread
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Let it rest before serving—never skip this step
Variations
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Austrian Liptauer: add anchovy paste and capers
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Smoked version: add smoked paprika
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Herb-forward: mix in fresh chives or parsley
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Low-fat: reduce cream cheese, increase quark
Storage
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Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Stir before serving
Cultural Note
Körözött is part of the wider Liptauer family of spreads found throughout Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, and surrounding regions. Each household has its own version, but paprika remains the defining ingredient.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Hungarian Cheese Spread is bold, creamy, and deeply traditional. With minimal ingredients and no cooking required, it’s an easy yet impressive addition to any table—perfect for sharing, snacking, or spreading generously on warm bread.