Rakott krumpli

Rakott krumpli is a baked Hungarian casserole of sliced potato, sausage, hard-boiled egg and sour cream, built up in layers. The name is Hungarian for "layered potatoes". It is a home dish across Hungary, cooked for family meals, and every household has its own version.

What it really is

Potatoes are boiled until just tender, peeled and cut into thin rounds. They go into a greased dish in alternating layers with slices of Hungarian sausage and hard-boiled egg, and each layer is spooned over with sour cream seasoned with paprika. Butter goes on top, and the dish bakes until the sour cream sets and the surface is golden. Cooks differ on the number of layers, the sausage and how thick the sour cream is, so one version can be firm and another loose and creamy.

How it's served

• Hot from the oven, cut into square portions so the layers hold their shape.
• As a main course, often with pickled vegetables or a green salad alongside.
• Leftover portions are often reheated and eaten again.

How to write it on the menu

• Name the sausage and its meat, such as pork, and say if it is smoked.
• Flag eggs and milk, which come from the eggs, sour cream and butter. Ask whether flour is used to thicken the sour cream, since that adds wheat.
• State that it contains meat, so vegetarian guests know to avoid it.
• Give the portion size and list any salad or pickles as a separate side.