Túrós Csusza (Hungarian Cottage Cheese

Túrós Csusza is a traditional Hungarian comfort food made with noodles, túró (a type of Hungarian cottage cheese), crispy bacon, and sour cream. It’s simple, rich, and incredibly satisfying.

Here’s a classic version, with substitutions for non-Hungarian ingredients if needed:

🇭🇺 Túrós Csusza (Hungarian Cottage Cheese Noodles)

🧺 Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 225g) wide egg noodles (or any flat pasta)

• 1 cup (250g) túró* (or substitute with well-drained ricotta or farmer’s cheese)

• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream

• 4 oz (100-120g) smoked bacon or pancetta, diced

• Salt, to taste

*Túró is a dry, crumbly cottage cheese common in Central/Eastern Europe. If using regular cottage cheese, drain it in cheesecloth or a sieve first.

🔧 Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles
   Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Fry the Bacon
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels. Reserve the bacon fat.

3. Assemble the Dish
   In the same skillet or a large mixing bowl, toss the drained noodles with:

   • A spoonful of the reserved bacon fat (optional, but flavorful)

   • The sour cream

   • The túró or substitute cheese

   • Most of the crispy bacon (save some for topping)

4. Bake or Serve
   You can either:

   • Serve it as-is, warm and creamy, OR

   • Transfer it to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes to lightly brown the top.

5. Top and Serve
   Sprinkle the reserved bacon over the top and serve immediately.

🍽️ Serving Tips:

• Serve with a side of cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for balance.

• Túrós Csusza is often eaten as a main dish or a hearty side.