Hungarian Tarhonya (Egg Barley)
Tarhonya is a traditional Hungarian egg pasta, often referred to as egg barley due to its small, irregular shape. This simple preparation involves toasting the pasta until golden, then simmering it in vegetable broth until tender and fluffy. It makes a versatile and comforting side dish.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 25 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
- 250 gtarhonya
- 1 tbspvegetable oil
- 480 mlvegetable broth, hot
- 0.5 tspsalt
- 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
Equipment
medium saucepan · fork · spoon
The method
Step by step
- 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Ensure your pan is large enough to comfortably hold the tarhonya and broth without overflowing.
- 2
Add the tarhonya to the hot oil and stir constantly for 5-7 minutes, until the pasta turns a rich golden brown color.
About 7 min
Cook’s note: Toasting the tarhonya evenly is key for flavor and texture, so don't leave it unattended.
- 3
Carefully pour in the hot vegetable broth, then add the salt and black pepper.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Using hot broth helps maintain the pan's temperature and speeds up cooking.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 12-15 minutes.
About 15 min
Cook’s note: Do not lift the lid during simmering to retain all the steam and cook the pasta through.
- 5
After simmering, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes to allow the tarhonya to absorb any remaining liquid.
Cook’s note: This resting period is crucial for the tarhonya to become fluffy and fully tender.
- 6
Fluff the cooked tarhonya with a fork before serving.
Keep it good
Store leftover tarhonya in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Gently reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
More recipes
All recipesside dish
Traditional Dutch Rookworst
Rookworst is a Dutch smoked sausage, traditionally served with stamppot or other hearty Dutch meals. This recipe focuses on properly heating and serving the sausage to bring out its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture. It's a simple yet satisfying addition to any winter meal.
25 min 219 kcalmain course
Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Hot Dogs
A classic American comfort food, this dish features tender elbow macaroni and sliced hot dogs in a rich, homemade cheddar cheese sauce. The casserole is baked until bubbly and golden-brown on top, making for a satisfying and kid-friendly weeknight dinner.
50 min 836 kcalbreakfast
Pain au Chocolat
These classic French pastries feature rich, flaky laminated dough wrapped around two pieces of dark chocolate. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, they offer a delightful contrast of crisp exterior and tender, buttery interior with melted chocolate.
13 hr 18 min 485 kcalmain course
Spanish Canelones with Meat Filling
This classic Spanish dish features tender pasta sheets rolled around a savory meat filling, baked in a rich bechamel sauce. It's a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for a family dinner. The canelones are often topped with cheese and baked until golden brown.
1 hr 45 min 849 kcalmain course
Pyttipanna
A classic Scandinavian hash made from diced potatoes, smoked sausage, and onions, all fried together in a single pan. This hearty and satisfying dish is traditionally served with a fried egg on top and a side of pickled beets.
40 min 569 kcalmain course
Bun Bo Xao (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Salad)
This vibrant Vietnamese beef noodle salad features tender marinated beef stir-fried with onions, served over a bed of fresh herbs, lettuce, and rice vermicelli. It's all brought together with a tangy, savory nuoc cham dressing and topped with crunchy peanuts.
1 hr 10 min 689 kcalmain course
Beef Rendang
This rich and aromatic Indonesian beef rendang features tender beef slow-cooked in a complex paste of spices and coconut milk until the liquids reduce and the meat is coated in a thick, flavorful sauce. It's a deeply savory and satisfying dish, perfect for a special meal.
3 hr 30 min 911 kcal