There is nothing wrong with using Teflon tape when applied correctly. Start at the tip of the male threads and wrap up toward the top then back down to the tip and break it off. Wrap in the direction of the threads (if you are looking into the hose, it is clockwise) Don't let the tape overlap the end so nothing gets into the hydraulic hose. The only issue to watch for is if you remove a connection that has used Teflon, you need to clean the male AND the female connections very good to remove all the pieces of Teflon.
A Teflon paste is best thing for inexperienced folks to use but make sure it is recommended for liquid hydrocarbon service. It doesn't take much to lubricate the threads so you can get a good seal.
One thing to NOT do is over tighten. If you tighten too much, you can damage the threads and the joint will leak regardless of the type of thread dope you use. If you use an end wrench just use moderate pressure to tighten at first. If it leaks, tighten another 1/4 turn at a time till leak stops. After a bit of experience, you will know just about the right amount of force needed to tighten the joint correctly the first time.