Rétes Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes  

   Prep Time: 50 minutes

Rétes Ingredients

Rétes Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt. Make a well in the center and add 2/3 cup lukewarm water, 2 tablespoons sunflower oil, 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar, and 1 large egg. Mix with your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, coat lightly with sunflower oil, and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
  3. While the dough rests, peel, core, and thinly slice 1 1/2 pounds tart apples. Place in a large bowl and toss with 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 cup golden raisins (drained from 2 tablespoons dark rum), and 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. In a small skillet, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs and cook, stirring, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and brush lightly with sunflower oil.
  6. On a large, clean tablecloth, sprinkle flour generously. Place the rested dough in the center and roll out as thinly as possible with a rolling pin. Then, using the backs of your hands, gently stretch the dough from the center outward until it is almost translucent and measures about 2 feet by 3 feet. Trim any thick edges.
  7. Brush the entire surface of the dough with melted butter. Evenly sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the lower third of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border along the edges.
  8. Spread the apple filling evenly over the breadcrumbs. Fold the short edges of the dough over the filling to enclose the ends.
  9. Using the tablecloth to help, gently roll up the rétes from the filling side, jelly-roll style, until completely enclosed. Carefully transfer the roll, seam side down, onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with more melted butter.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the rétes is golden brown and crisp. Brush once or twice during baking with additional melted butter for a flaky crust.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for at least 20 minutes. Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Estimated Calories: 220, Servings: 8

Recommended Dishes

Rétes Tips

Ready to make your kitchen smell like a Hungarian grandma's bakery? The secret to the best Rétes recipe is all about that paper-thin dough-think edible silk, not yoga mat. For a truly authentic and homemade experience, keep your hands floured and your patience high. If you want a quick and easy shortcut, store-bought phyllo can save the day, but nothing beats the taste of a simple, homemade dough.
Want to know how to make your Rétes the star of the dessert table? Brush each layer with melted butter for a flaky, golden finish that's as tasty as it is photogenic. Don't skimp on the filling-whether you're going classic with apple or daring with poppy seed, use the best and freshest ingredients for a delicious, perfect bite every time.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or lemon zest into your filling. That's a pro tip straight from the old country! And here's another: let your Rétes cool before slicing, or you'll end up with a pastry avalanche. If you're after a quick and easy treat, serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream. Now that's a recipe for happiness!

Rétes History

Rétes has a backstory that is as layered as the best gossip in a Budapest coffeehouse. This delicious pastry traces its roots to the Ottoman Empire, which means Hungary borrowed a good idea and made it even better. The recipe for rétes became a symbol of Hungarian ingenuity, turning a simple concept into a national treasure. It is a good example of how food can travel, adapt, and become a beloved staple in a new land. If you ever wondered how something so easy to eat could have such a complex past, rétes is your answer.
Over the centuries, the recipe for rétes has evolved faster than you can say "quick snack." Originally, it was a simple affair, but Hungarians are nothing if not creative in the kitchen. They started stuffing it with everything from apples to poppy seeds, making it a great way to use up whatever was lying around. Modern cooks have taken this evolution to new heights, experimenting with healthy fillings and even gluten free doughs. The best part? It is still as fast and easy to make as ever, especially if you are not rolling out the dough by hand like your great grandmother did.
Regional adaptations of rétes are a good reminder that no two grandmas make it the same way. In some parts of Hungary, you will find savory versions stuffed with cabbage or cheese, while others stick to the classic sweet fillings. Neighboring countries have also put their own spin on the recipe, proving that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Whether you like it traditional or with a modern twist, rétes remains a delicious, crowd pleasing treat that is as versatile as it is beloved.

Rétes Pairings

If you are on a quest for the best flavors to accompany your rétes, look no further than the world of sweet and tangy. A good sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla can elevate the experience from simply delicious to absolutely unforgettable. For those who like to live on the wild side, a quick zest of lemon or orange can add a bright, healthy twist that will have your taste buds doing the cha-cha. The great thing about these flavors is that they are easy to find and even easier to love, making your rétes recipe a fast favorite at any gathering.
Now, let us talk about the foods that play well with rétes. If you are feeling fancy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is a classic, easy pairing that never fails to impress. For a more healthy and quick option, try serving your rétes with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad. These sides not only add a burst of color to your plate but also bring a refreshing contrast to the rich, flaky pastry. It is a good way to make your dessert feel a little less guilty and a lot more festive.
No Hungarian dessert party is complete without a drink in hand, and rétes is no exception. For the best experience, pair your pastry with a glass of sweet Tokaji wine or a light, fruity rosé. If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, a cup of strong black tea or a quick, easy homemade lemonade can be just as delicious. These drinks are great for balancing the sweetness of the rétes and keeping the conversation flowing faster than you can say "more, please!"

About Rétes Recipe

I'll admit, when I first heard about this Hungarian Rétes recipe, I was skeptical. Could a simple pastry really live up to its reputation as the best and most delicious dessert? But after trying this easy and quick recipe, I'm officially a convert. The homemade dough, filled with tasty ingredients like apples, cherries, or sweet cheese, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. If you're wondering how to make an authentic Rétes, trust me-this recipe is the real deal, and it's surprisingly simple to master.
What makes this the best Rétes recipe isn't just the authentic taste, but also how easy it is to prepare. You don't need to be a pastry chef to pull off this homemade treat. With a few quick tips and the right ingredients, you'll have a delicious dessert that impresses everyone. The secret is in the dough-stretching it thin enough to read a newspaper through (yes, really!)-and the tasty fillings that make each bite a little adventure. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to wow your friends, this is the perfect recipe to try.
I used to think making Rétes was a complicated ordeal, but this recipe proved me wrong. The step-by-step instructions and simple ingredients make it accessible for anyone, even if you're not a seasoned baker. The result? A homemade, authentic pastry that's flaky, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. If you want to know how to make the best Rétes, don't skip the tips for getting that perfect golden crust. Give this recipe a shot-you might just become a true believer, too!

Rétes Story

When I first encountered this dish, my inner food compass spun wildly, unsure if I was about to betray my family's long-standing recipe traditions. You see, in my household, anything unfamiliar was met with suspicion, as if it might leap off the plate and challenge us to a duel. The idea of trying something outside our usual menu felt like a culinary rebellion. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice in my head, warning me that the best meals are the ones you know by heart. But curiosity is a great motivator, and I decided to take the plunge, even if it meant risking my status as the family's "good eater."
Now, let us talk about dietary restrictions. My body and I have a complicated relationship with certain foods, and I usually stick to what is safe, healthy, and easy to digest. This dish, however, was a wild card. I found myself negotiating with my stomach like a diplomat at a peace summit, promising it that this would be a quick adventure and not a permanent change. The first bite was a leap of faith, and to my surprise, it was delicious. I realized that sometimes, the best experiences come from stepping outside your comfort zone, even if your digestive system sends you a strongly worded letter afterward.
Reflecting on the whole experience, I learned that food can be a bridge, not a barrier. What started as a challenge to my beliefs and habits turned into a great story to share at the next family gathering. I discovered that being open to new things does not mean abandoning your roots; it just means your roots get a little more interesting. Plus, I now have a new party trick: I can whip up a dish that is both fast and impressive, and I get to tell everyone how I bravely faced my culinary fears. Who knew that a simple meal could teach such a big lesson?