What to eat in Poland: 15 typical Polish dishes

If you’re planning a trip to Poland, prepare your palate for an extraordinary culinary adventure. The Polish cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and influences from neighboring countries, resulting in a rich gastronomic heritage that deserves to be explored. In this article, we will introduce you to 15 must-try dishes that showcase the heart and soul of Polish cooking.

One of the best ways to experience Polish cuisine is by joining a gastronomic tour in Spanish. You can find options in both Warsaw and Krakow. For beer enthusiasts, there are also beer tours in Krakow that promise to delight your taste buds.

1. Pierogi: The Beloved Dumplings

No visit to Poland is complete without trying pierogi, the country’s iconic dumplings. These delightful pasta pockets can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including meat, potatoes, sauerkraut, cheese, and even sweet fillings like fruits. They are often served with a dollop of sour cream or fried onions, making them a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Available in nearly every restaurant, pierogi can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, and they are surprisingly affordable. Whether you prefer them boiled, fried, or baked, you’re in for a treat!

2. Bigos: The Hunter's Stew

Known as the national dish of Poland, bigos is a hearty stew that combines various meats, sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and an array of spices. Commonly referred to as "hunter's stew," bigos is a dish that gets better with time, as it is often left to simmer for hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

This dish is a true reflection of Polish culinary tradition and is often served during festive occasions, embodying the country’s rich history and love for comfort food.

3. Kielbasa: A Sausage Lover's Dream

No Polish meal is complete without kielbasa, the country’s famous sausage. These smoked sausages come in various types and flavors, and they can be served grilled, boiled, or incorporated into soups. Often accompanied by potatoes and sauerkraut, kielbasa is a staple in Polish households and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Pair it with a cold beer, and you’ll truly experience a taste of Poland!

4. Barszcz Czerwony: The Beetroot Soup

Poland boasts a rich soup culture, and barszcz czerwony (beetroot soup) is one of the most iconic. This vibrant, ruby-red soup is made primarily from beetroots and is typically seasoned with garlic, onions, and lemon juice. It’s often served hot with a dollop of sour cream on top, enhancing its creamy texture.

Barszcz is not just a meal; it’s an experience, often accompanied by delicious dumplings called uszka, filled with mushrooms or meat.

5. Zurek: The National Soup

Considered Poland's national soup, zurek is made from fermented rye flour, creating a unique tangy flavor. It is often served with sausage, hard-boiled eggs, and potatoes, making it both filling and comforting. What’s particularly charming is that zurek is sometimes served in a hollowed-out loaf of rye bread, adding to its rustic appeal.

This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to savor authentic Polish flavors!

6. Chlodnik: The Refreshing Cold Soup

When summer temperatures soar, chlodnik comes to the rescue. This refreshing cold soup is made from beetroot, kefir, cucumbers, and radishes, delivering a light and invigorating dish perfect for hot days. Often garnished with fresh herbs, chlodnik is not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes with its vibrant pink hue.

It’s a testament to the versatility of Polish cuisine, showing that warmth isn’t the only thing that defines a good soup.

7. Kotlet Schabowy: The Polish Cutlet

Similar to a Wiener Schnitzel, kotlet schabowy is a breaded and fried pork cutlet that has become a beloved staple in Polish households. Usually served with a side of potatoes and sauerkraut or cabbage, this dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a popular choice for family dinners.

The crispy exterior paired with tender meat inside creates a comforting meal that is hard to resist.

8. Gulasz: A Hearty Goulash

While gulasz in Poland is similar to its Hungarian counterpart, it tends to be thicker and is often served as a stew rather than a soup. This dish features chunks of meat, usually beef, cooked with a variety of vegetables and spices, resulting in a savory, rich flavor. It’s often accompanied by dumplings or bread, making it perfect for warming up on cold days.

9. Golonka: The Ultimate Pork Knuckle

If you’re a meat enthusiast, golonka is sure to impress. This dish consists of a roasted pork knuckle that is incredibly tender and flavorful. Usually served with sauerkraut and potatoes, golonka is a feast fit for a king, with portions that can be quite generous—often exceeding one kilogram!

It’s best enjoyed with good company, making it a fantastic dish for sharing during celebrations.

10. Kaczka z Jabłkami: Duck with Apples

Kaczka z jabłkami is a classic Polish dish featuring roasted duck served with a sweet apple sauce. The combination of savory and sweet flavors creates a delightful harmony that elevates this dish. Often made for special occasions, this dish exemplifies the Polish knack for combining simple ingredients into something exquisite.

11. Schab ze Śliwkami: Pork with Plums

Another delightful meat dish, schab ze śliwkami consists of pork loin stuffed with plums. This sweet and savory combination is particularly popular during family celebrations and gatherings. It can be served hot or cold and is often accompanied by mashed potatoes or seasonal vegetables, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

12. Pyzy: Potato Dumplings

If you’re a potato lover, pyzy will steal your heart. These dumplings are made from mashed potatoes and can be filled with various ingredients, such as bacon or sautéed onions. They are often served with a rich gravy or butter, making them a comforting dish that is perfect for sharing.

13. Papieska Kremówka: The Pope’s Cream Cake

Papieska kremówka is a delicious cream cake named after Pope John Paul II, who hailed from Poland. This dessert features layers of puff pastry filled with creamy custard and whipped cream, making for a delightful sweet treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee.

It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth and a great way to pay homage to a beloved figure in Polish history.

14. Naleśniki: Polish Crepes

Similar to French crepes, naleśniki can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. They make an excellent dessert when filled with sweet cheese and topped with powdered sugar. Alternatively, savory fillings like spinach and cheese or mushrooms can turn them into a hearty meal. Their versatility makes them a beloved item on Polish menus.

15. Wuzetka: Chocolate Cake Delight

Last but not least, wuzetka is a decadent chocolate cake filled with whipped cream. This sweet, indulgent dessert is a favorite among locals and is perfect for satisfying cravings for something rich and sweet. Its layered texture and creamy filling make it a delightful end to any meal.

As you can see, Polish cuisine is both diverse and delicious. With an array of dishes that highlight the country's rich culinary traditions, you're sure to find something that delights your taste buds. Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey through Poland?

For more insights into Polish cuisine, check out this informative video that showcases some of the must-try dishes:

Whether you’re indulging in hearty stews, delightful dumplings, or sweet pastries, each dish tells a story of Poland's rich heritage and shared traditions. Come hungry and leave impressed!

What to Eat in Andalucía: Typical Dishes of Andalusian Cuisine

10 Traditional Dishes to Try in Asturias for a Fartucu Experience