Lekvár

Lekvár is a type of fruit preserve that is popular in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in countries such as Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, and Romania. It is made by cooking fruit, such as plums, apricots, or cherries, with sugar until it forms a thick, sweet spread. The fruit is often pureed to create a smooth texture, although some versions may contain small pieces of fruit.

History

The origins of lekvár are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been a staple in Central and Eastern European cuisine for centuries. The word "lekvár" comes from the Hungarian word "lekváros," which means "jam-like." It is thought to have been introduced to Hungary by the Ottoman Empire during their occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Preparation

The preparation of lekvár involves cooking fruit with sugar over a low heat for an extended period of time. The fruit is typically peeled and pitted before being cooked, and is often pureed to create a smooth texture. The amount of sugar used can vary depending on the sweetness of the fruit and personal preference, but it is typically between 30% and 60% of the weight of the fruit. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients, such as lemon juice, cinnamon, or cloves, to enhance the flavor.

Uses

Lekvár is often used as a spread for bread or pastries, but it can also be used in a variety of other dishes. In Hungary, it is commonly used as a filling for palacsinta, a type of thin pancake similar to a crepe. It can also be used as a filling for pastries, such as strudel or kolache, or as a topping for desserts, such as ice cream or cheesecake.

Varieties

There are many different varieties of lekvár, depending on the type of fruit used. Some of the most popular varieties include plum, apricot, and cherry, but it can also be made with other fruits, such as peaches, apples, or berries. Each variety has its own unique flavor and texture, and the color can range from a light golden color for apricot lekvár to a deep purple for plum lekvár.

See also

• List of spreads
• List of fruit dishes
• List of Hungarian dishes