Hungarian Hangover soup (Korhelyleves)🇭🇺

Here’s the ultimate cold-weather and post-celebration remedy straight from Hungary’s kitchens:

🇭🇺 Hungarian Hangover Soup – Korhelyleves

Korhelyleves literally means “drunkard’s soup” — a tangy, hearty, paprika-spiced cabbage soup traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day or after a long night of celebration. It’s believed to revive you thanks to its warming broth, smoky meats, and the gentle acidity of sauerkraut.

🍽 Servings: 6–8

⏱ Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 45–60 min

🧾 Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp lard or vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 300 g (10 oz) smoked sausage (kolbász), sliced
  • 200–250 g (7–9 oz) smoked ham or smoked pork ribs, diced
  • 500 g (1 lb) sauerkraut, rinsed and chopped (adjust sourness to taste)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 small parsnip, sliced (optional)
  • 1–1.5 liters (4–6 cups) beef or pork stock
  • 1–2 bay leaves
  • 5–6 whole black peppercorns
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
  • 200 ml (Âľ cup) sour cream
  • 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
PREPARATION